Empowering Young Professionals to Advocate for Credit Unions

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With the 2024 election bringing new leadership and potential policy shifts, it’s crucial for young professionals to advocate for the movement. We can champion the credit union difference by staying proactive. Here are four ways you can make an impact:

1. Stay Informed and Educate Others

   Understanding how new policies may affect credit unions is essential. Stay current with resources from Cornerstone League and America’s Credit Unions. Share the knowledge with peers and members to highlight the value credit unions bring through financial inclusivity and member-focused services.
   

2. Back Your PAC

   Young professionals have the power to shape the future. One way to do this is by supporting your political action committee (PAC). Backing your PAC helps ensure that lawmakers who support credit union interests are elected and that your voice is heard on Capitol Hill. Together, we can ensure credit unions continue to thrive, even amid political changes.
   

3. Connect with Your Lawmakers

   One key to protecting credit unions is building strong relationships with lawmakers. Events like Hike the Hill and the Governmental Affairs Conference—or a Crash event—where advocates meet with lawmakers in Washington, D.C., can help facilitate those relationships. State GACs and Days at the Capitol are great for meeting elected officials closer to your community and are especially beneficial when those state lawmakers move on to federal seats.

   “I gained comprehensive knowledge about current legislation and the potential impacts of the election,” said Evan Rogers, a young professional from BluCurrent Credit Union who crashed Hike the Hill this year. “The discussions with members of the Senate and House of Representatives were invaluable in understanding how we can best serve consumers from their perspective. Additionally, it was a great opportunity to connect with other credit unions from Oklahoma, Texas, and Arkansas to learn about their best practices in serving their members.”

   These events provide a powerful platform to share how credit unions impact local communities. Sharing personal success stories from your credit union can leave a lasting impression.
   

4. Leverage Your Credit Union’s Resources
   Most credit unions have dedicated government relations or advocacy teams well-versed in legislative priorities. Connect with these teams to stay informed about the latest advocacy campaigns, legislative updates, and action items.
   
   Additionally, talk to your executive manager about joining UNITE , Cornerstone’s powerful grassroots activism initiative. UNITE connects credit unions with lawmakers to amplify industry voices, enhance engagement, and advance credit union causes and concerns.

Learn more about upcoming advocacy opportunities from Cornerstone League.