MADISON, Wis.–The largest group ever of young “Crashers” will be in attendance when CUNA hosts its Governmental Affairs Conference in Washington in February.
According to the Filene Research Institute’s Cooperative Trust, which is the formal name for the organization that represents young leaders within credit unions, some 78 Crashers will “Crash the GAC” as part of what is described as a “non-stop, career-changing program for credit union young professionals that allows them to experience the industry’s largest advocacy conference with a complimentary registration.”
Crasher attendees will participate in networking events and mentoring sessions, and will “leave with contacts and mentors to help advance their careers and action steps for helping to increase the relevancy of credit unions among younger generations.”
“As we continue to grow The Cooperative Trust and Crash opportunities, we’re always challenging ourselves to elevate and advance the program to provide the most impact for young professionals and the credit union system,” said Lauren Culp, manager of The Cooperative Trust. “We know that it’s more important than ever that young people have a voice and are included in the conversation as we look to the future of our industry.”
According to the Cooperative Trust, this year 10 credit unions have chosen to pay their Crasher’s registration fee to allow for 10 other young professionals to attend with the complimentary registration. In addition, Bethpage Federal Credit Union, BECU, Coastal Credit Union, and SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union have also chosen to pay for their Crashers’ registration fees and have also collectively donated an additional eight crasher spots to the program.
“This allows us to give the Crash the GAC opportunity to a record number of young professionals,” the Cooperative Trust said. “Crash the GAC and other crash events throughout the year are designed to spark new ways of thinking and build lasting relationships for young professionals within the credit union industry. Crashers are sent home hungry to help their communities and organizations. Crash the GAC is a launching pad for many young professionals’ careers and gives them the confidence and insight to make a profound and lasting impact in the industry.”
The Cooperative Trust also credited CUNA and the state leagues for providing support.