Young Professionals Share the Wisdom and Value of Advocacy
Seasoned credit union advocates have over the years realized the wisdom and value of growing their government relations knowledge and engagement expertise. They have seen the results of their actions and influence on lawmakers, often first-hand, as legislation that affects credit unions works through the halls of Congress and state legislatures.
As young professionals become more familiar with government relations through leaders in their credit union and the larger credit union community, they realize that active engagement is an investment in the future of the credit union movement—and they are learning valuable lessons to pass along to other young professionals.
“Advocacy is important because it draws attention to issues and gives you a voice in the credit union movement,” said Ashley Williams, My Community Credit Union. “Being an advocate means you can have a far-reaching impact on things in our industry. Knowledge is power, and the best way to expand your knowledge is to get involved.”
Williams also said that the credit union philosophy of “people helping people” will only continue if people advocate for that philosophy at all levels of the movement.
“Do not think you are too young,” Williams said. “Your voice is exactly what is needed. Be bold, be fearless, and be an advocate!”
Tristan Shirley, from Diamond Lakes Federal Credit Union, expressed a similar sentiment. “Advocacy is showing public support for a cause or policy, and what we advocate for now will shape our work environments in the future,” she said. “Credit unions make a difference in their communities; they’re here for the people. Advocating for credit unions ensures that they can continue to make a difference tomorrow.”
“I think it’s important for young professionals to be involved in government relations because we are the future credit union leaders,” said Nick Hernandez of Tarrant County’s Credit Union. “For us to stay visible, we’ll always need to be in front of bankers who try to bring us down. Being an advocate is using your voice to get our message out, whether on social media or in person.”
Hernandez added that it’s also important to help other young professionals get engaged, to start a spark in them so they can do the same for someone else.
“As the future of our industry, if young professionals don’t stand up to tell the stories of how credit unions are positively impacting our members and the communities we serve, then who will?” asked Matt Walker of Oklahoma Central Credit Union. “Committing to advocacy means actively seizing opportunities to share these stories with the public, as well as with legislators on the federal and local levels. It is within our power to ensure that not-for-profit financial institutions stay in the marketplace as a viable option for consumers, and good public policy serves as a conduit for credit unions to continue to serve in that capacity.”
These young professionals have captured the essence of what it means to be an advocate for the credit union movement. What can you do to increase your government relations knowledge, advance your advocacy engagement skills, and expand your sphere of influence with lawmakers? It’s easier than you might think, and your peers—and leaders—are eager to help.
