More than Financial Services Providers: The Greater Purpose of Credit Unions

Posted by Katy Wagnon on October 3, 2023

Welcoming more than 1,000 people serving credit unions across Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming to GoWest’s MAXX Convention, President and CEO Troy Stang acknowledged the significant value credit unions provide to their members and communities, emphasizing the important role they hold in delivering diverse and needs-based impact.

“Credit unions do more than provide financial services to their members; they bridge gaps, propel economic growth and resilience, drive change, help build essential infrastructure across GoWest communities, and give hope for future generations,” said Stang.

Stang extended his gratitude on behalf of GoWest to all attendees for their dedication to not-for-profit, cooperative credit unions, and their contributions to the Credit Union Movement. He highlighted the unique nature of MAXX, which serves as a time for reflection, connection, celebration, and exploring the future together.

He emphasized the importance of credit unions’ greater purpose in driving change and stability in communities, noting their unmatched resilience in times of crisis. Stang highlighted the far-reaching impact of GoWest’s member credit unions, serving nearly 17 million people and small businesses across the region.

“Credit unions shine brightest through their countless stories of financial well-being and community, making impact that no other institution is designed or capable of doing,” said Stang. “We call it the Credit Union Difference – the not-for-profit cooperative structure that all credit unions are built upon and uniquely calls them to be stewards of their communities.”

Stang detailed the role of GoWest as an association in navigating the ever-changing landscape of societal, economic, and political environments. He described a continuous cycle where the association identifies challenges, advocates for change, and implements solutions.

Troy Stang, GoWest President and CEO

Using a recent example where GoWest and Oregon credit unions partnered as advocates on a bill requiring financial education in high school curriculum that was successfully signed into law, he showcased how credit unions can influence policy evolution and enact change. He stressed the importance of collective action and engagement among credit unions in shaping a brighter future.

Credit union leaders were called upon to continue to go forward together, as they embrace their role as change agents whose collective influence on policy decisions drives positive change for everyday people – leaving the attendees with the opportunity to reflect on their greater purpose and to lead with determination.

Stang closed with gratitude for the accomplishments achieved in GoWest’s first year as a six-state family, and encouraged credit unions to continue pushing boundaries, challenging limitations, and expanding their influence. Credit unions, he said, serve as “beacons of hope and stability.”

 “We remain inspired by the road ahead – the boundless possibilities, uncharted territories, and the ever-changing landscape credit unions are shaping,” said Stang. “The future is bright, and I am honored to stand together alongside thousands of credit union professionals as we fully realize our greater purpose together.”

You can follow more of the action at MAXX on our Social Wall where attendees are live uploading posts about their experience. If you want to get involved with the GoWest Movement, check out our 2024 Signature Events!

Posted in MAXX Annual Convention, Thought Leadership, Top Headlines.