Creating Influence

Cultivating Connections Step by Step: Credit Unions Growing Relationships for the Industry

Relationships are built on time, trust and regular interaction. And this is true with legislators as well; a connection to the industry does not happen overnight, but is created through the regular interactions of credit unions. The most recent examples of these include:

  • On July 20th GCUA met with state Rep. Dar’shun Kendrick (D-Lithonia) to help create a positive connection for the industry and grow a relationship. Rep. Kendrick spends part of her time mentoring individuals who are interested in a career in the legislative arena, and has developed a program for these individuals to learn more about the process. Growing this relationship with Rep. Kendrick is a positive avenue to help expand not only her understanding of the industry and their unique legislative needs, but also expand the general awareness of credit unions by being an information resource for her program.
  • On July 26th, leaders of Robins Financial CU represented the industry at an in-district political event for state Rep. Shaw Blackmon (R-Bonaire). This personal connection with Rep. Blackmon existed prior his election in 2015, and his openness to the industry has been a strong asset. This in-district interaction helps continue that, and our thanks to Robins Financial CU for sharing their time at the event and having such a positive connection.
  • U.S. Rep. Sanford Bishop
    Kinetic CU’s team participated in a recent campaign event for U.S. Rep. Sanford Bishop. From left: George Stringer (scorekeeper), Ben Brannin, J.J. Seman, Rep. Bishop, Brian Williams, Charles Edwards

    On July 30th leaders from Kinetic CU engaged with U.S. Rep. Sanford Bishop (D-2) for the industry. Rep. Bishop has been a strong supporter of credit unions over the years in Congress, signing onto legislation to help the industry as well as letters urging other federal agencies to act on key issues of importance (and most recently his support of credit unions in the ADA website issue). This in-district interaction helps reiterate the appreciation for his support, as well as connect credit unions with him in the Columbus area.

These three instances provide an excellent overview of what it takes to help grow relationships for the industry and why that’s important, from creation to continuation. We encourage all credit unions to find ways to reach out to your elected leaders – from local city/county politics on up to federal. By doing so you help plant the seeds of success for tomorrow!

Follow us

Don't be shy, get in touch. We love meeting interesting people and making new friends.