Cornerstone pandemic communications provide critical information

Editor’s note: The following story is the final article in a three-part series highlighting the ways in which Cornerstone Credit Union League has guided its members through the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. From offering complimentary training sessions to ramping up advocacy efforts on behalf of credit union members, Cornerstone aims to be a reliable partner to support members’ stability and perseverance during all stages of success.

Communication is key, and it’s been especially important during the ongoing pandemic. An essential part of Cornerstone’s response during the pandemic, communications about critical information has been a top priority for leaders and staff. One way Cornerstone accomplished this was through the Pandemic Resources webpage, which provides League members with valuable resources, including frequently asked questions, regulatory guidance, legislative updates affecting credit unions, webinars featuring the financial services industry’s top experts, and news.

Additionally, Cornerstone kept members up to date through the Pandemic Leaguer. Created as a supplement to the Leaguer, the Pandemic Leaguer provided members with timely news articles. From featuring members who employed creative ways to boost morale to conveying expert interpretations of complex legislation, the Pandemic Leaguer was an essential component of the pandemic response.

After the Pandemic Leaguer was decommissioned, Caroline’s Corner was launched as an additional source of information for members. Intended to reach members through Cornerstone President and CEO Caroline Willard’s voice, the weekly publication covers topics such as pandemic-related information, diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, and advocacy efforts.

“When the pandemic was declared in March 2020, life and business as we knew it changed forever,” said Caprock Federal Credit Union President/CEO Dale Hansard. “Cornerstone really stood up for its members by providing additional resources to help guide us through these challenging times. I especially enjoy the Caroline’s Corner publication because it’s so informative and relevant. This publication lets us know where things are.”

Hansard added, “Cornerstone is not only our think tank and brain trust, but also with the Foundation it’s our heart trust. The League plays an important role in connecting us with our peers during COVID-19 and providing a ray of light as we go through this difficult time.”

The League also created a special video, thanking credit unions for their essential role in the community. The intent was to help boost morale among our credit union members. The video became a “community event,” inviting members to submit photos and video clips of themselves and their teams serving their communities during the pandemic.