Page 8 - Michigan Credit Union League: 2018 Contact Q3

CHAPTER HIGHLIGHT

BATTLE CREEK CHAPTER
OF CREDIT UNIONS:

INFORMED AND ENGAGED

By Shawn Glinis

When I asked LuAnn Schott, the chairperson of the The Chapter is also making sure it’s staying informed on

Battle Creek Chapter of Credit Unions, what the organi- both MCUL-related business and credit union industry

zation’s mission is, she said, “The Chapter mission has trends. In February, MCUL President/CEO Dave Adams

always been to support the local charities.” Clarifying, spoke to the Battle Creek Chapter at OMNI Community

Schott continued, “We have been able to do this Credit Union.

because of those that believe in what we do and who we

are — people helping people in the Battle Creek area.” “He provided an overview of the 2018 plans for MCUL.

It was a great opportunity for the Chapter to hear about

In 2017, the Battle Creek Chapter generously supported the upcoming initiatives from the League,” said Schott.

its communities with donations totaling $6,000. The The following month, they held a dinner and meeting

beneficiaries of these funds were Junior Achievement that included a training session on the Bank Secrecy

of Southwest Michigan, the Food Bank of South Central Act and cyber security for the board of directors.

Michigan, Inasmuch House and the Michigan Credit

Union Foundation. The Chapter chose these organi- While fundraising, education sessions and political

zations because they share the same core values advocacy are the parts of a Chapter’s annual agenda

and philosophies. talked about most frequently, we don’t hear as much

about the celebration of credit union employees and

Over the past year, Schott said the group has also volunteers — but that doesn’t mean it’s any less essen-

made a point to stay politically engaged. The Michigan tial, and the Battle Creek Chapter understands.

Credit Union League (MCUL) always recommends that

Chapters host their own legislative advocacy events — In November 2017, the Chapter celebrated during its

along with attending MCUL and Credit Union National annual employee appreciation dinner. The Chapter

Association (CUNA) events — wherein they can invite thanked all the employees for their outstanding work

and speak directly to local lawmakers. That’s exactly in servicing members. Schott said it was a great night

what the Battle Creek Chapter did in October 2017 with for employees of all the credit unions in Battle Creek

a Pints and Politics event at the Cricket Club. to come together and collaborate, since they work at

different branches.

“This allowed important opportunities for credit union

representatives to speak with legislative represen- “It’s all about the credit union philosophy,” said Schott,

tatives regarding issues facing credit unions today,” referring to the celebration of Battle Creek credit union

said Schott. “We have had a good presence with the employees. But the same can be said of staying politi-

legislative folks and our support and ties to those who cally engaged and educationally up to date. At the end of

serve our districts — Sen. [Mike] Nofs [R-Battle Creek], the day, it’s all about how we can help other people.

Reps. [John] Bizon [R-Battle Creek] and [Justin] Amash

[R-Cascade Township], as well as others.”

8 THIRD QUARTER 2018 I CONTACT