Why Strong Data Matters for Credit Unions

Posted by Alyse Knudsen on September 16, 2026

Wyoming credit union leaders with Sen. John Barrasso during the 2026 Spring Hike the Hill

As policymakers prepare for new legislative sessions and a new Congress, GoWest is asking member credit unions across the six-state region to update the economic impact data that helps tell the credit union story clearly, credibly, and locally.

Credit unions recently received a personalized request to complete a survey that will help GoWest better understand and communicate the impact credit unions have across the region. The information collected will help demonstrate how credit unions strengthen communities, support local economies, serve members and deliver value through their not-for-profit cooperative structure.

Turning Local Impact Into a Bigger Story

Credit unions have powerful stories to tell. Every day, you help members buy homes, finance small businesses, recover from financial setbacks, access affordable services and build stronger financial futures. But telling that story effectively requires more than individual examples. Reliable data helps show the collective impact of credit unions across the states and communities they serve.

The surveys and data collection behind GoWest’s economic impact reports help translate that everyday work into clear, measurable outcomes. The resulting reports illustrate how credit unions contribute to jobs, economic activity, household financial well-being and community investment in each state and congressional district across the region.

Why Your Credit Union’s Data Matters

The more complete the picture, the better we can demonstrate the role credit unions play in the communities they serve. Data from individual credit unions contributes to a broader understanding of the movement’s economic impact — and gives GoWest a stronger foundation for conversations with policymakers, community leaders and other stakeholders.

This information is especially valuable when GoWest participates in Day at the Capitol events, meets with members of Congress and engages in conversations about issues affecting credit unions. It provides concrete, localized examples of how credit unions contribute to the financial well-being of their members and the economic strength of their communities.

Building a Stronger Picture Together

Strong data helps bring the credit union difference to life. By participating in GoWest’s economic impact survey, your credit union helps create a more complete picture of the people, businesses and communities credit unions serve across the region.

That information can be used in a variety of ways — from economic impact reports and community conversations to advocacy and outreach. Most importantly, it helps ensure that the story of credit unions is backed by credible, meaningful data that reflects the difference you make every day.

For questions about the economic impact survey, please contact Christine Ruzzi, GoWest’s SVP, Strategic Resources.

Posted in Advocacy, GoWest Association, Storytelling, Top Headlines.