Learn, Engage, Advocate: Join Advocacy 101 Training on Aug. 12-13

Posted by Alyse Knudsen on August 5, 2026

Credit union leaders with State Senator Leonard Christian at Washington Day at the Capital 2026

Join GoWest Credit Union Association on Aug. 12-13 for a free, two-part virtual Advocacy 101 training designed to help credit union professionals strengthen their advocacy skills and better understand how their credit union’s story can drive meaningful change.

Whether you’re new to advocacy or looking to deepen your involvement, this interactive program will explore the connection between storytelling, relationship building, and legislative engagement. Participants will gain practical tools to become effective advocates for their members, their credit union, and the Credit Union Movement.

Led by GoWest’s advocacy team, including Chris Kemm, AVP of Political Affairs, and Jordan Beyer, AVP of Grassroots Advocacy, the workshop will cover a variety of ways credit unions can engage in advocacy at the local, state, and federal levels. Guest speakers will share insights on crafting compelling messages about the Credit Union Difference, communicating with diverse audiences, and breaking down common misconceptions about advocacy and lobbying.

Colorado Day at the Capital 2026

“Advocacy is one of the most powerful ways credit union professionals can help shape the future of our movement,” said Beyer. “Advocacy 101 provides the foundation to tell your credit union’s story effectively, build meaningful relationships, and make your voice heard on issues that matter most to members.”

Why Attend?

This workshop offers a unique opportunity to learn directly from GoWest advocacy experts and connect with fellow credit union advocates from across the region. Participants will leave with greater confidence, practical advocacy tools, and actionable strategies they can apply right away.

What You’ll Learn

• Understand the many ways to engage in credit union advocacy at the local, state, and federal levels
• Build a personal and credit union advocacy strategy that aligns with your goals
• Learn how to communicate effectively with elected officials and share the Credit Union Difference
• Gain confidence in using your credit union’s story to advance policies that benefit members and communities

Who Should Attend?

This free program is intended for anyone who has an interest in honing their advocacy skill. Member service representatives to CEOs are encouraged to participate. If you have a passion for advocacy — talking with elected officials and others about the Credit Union Movement — then this program is a great fit for you.

Schedule

Wednesday, Aug. 12 – There are three time slots to choose from on Day 1. Choose one only:

• Option 1: 9 a.m.–10:30 a.m. PT | 10 a.m.–11:30 a.m. MT
• Option 2: 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. PT | 12 p.m.–1:30 p.m. MT
• Option 3: 2 p.m.–3:30 p.m. PT | 3 p.m.–4:30 p.m. MT

Thursday, Aug. 13 – Participants will come together for a single session on Day 2:

• 1 – 3 p.m. PT | 2 – 4 p.m. MT

Advocacy participation and engagement across credit union roles are key to helping credit unions make a positive impact in their communities. Advocacy 101 is the perfect place for you to begin your journey. Click HERE to register.

Advocacy 201

“Advocacy 201 takes us into the details of the several programs and strategies GoWest uses to move the needle on issues important to credit unions,” Beyer further explained. “These trainings are for anyone but especially helpful for folks just getting started in their advocacy journey.”

If you have already attended Advocacy 101 Trainings, click HERE for details on GoWest’s Advocacy 201 Session coming in September.

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