Investing in the “Now”: Why Young Professionals Should Get Involved

Posted by Alyse Knudsen on April 1, 2026

(L-R) Stephanie Zarceño, Rivermark Community Credit Union; Mary Navarrete, Point West Credit Union; Cesar Chavez, Rogue Credit Union

The Credit Union Movement depends on leaders who are willing to step forward — and many young professionals across the region are doing exactly that through GoWest and other industry programs and events, chapter involvement, and Young Credit Union Professional (YCUP) groups.

Across the region, emerging leaders are discovering that involvement opens doors in ways they didn’t initially expect.

Why Engaging Is Important

“I wanted to grow as a leader and understand the bigger picture of the Credit Union Movement, how we collaborate, advocate, and make an impact beyond our individual roles,” shared Cesar Chavez, Manager of Internal Support at Rogue Credit Union, about why he got involved in events and professional groups. “I was curious about how decisions are made, how we show up for our members at a larger level, and how I could contribute more meaningfully to that mission.”

YP Summit 2025

As he continued participating in events and programs, like Days at the Capitol, GAC Crashers, YP Leads at MAXX, YP Summit, Southern Oregon Chapter of Credit Unions, America’s Credit Union Councils, and many others, that curiosity turned into deeper engagement.

“As I got more involved, I realized these experiences gave me a voice and a seat at the table, something that really motivated me to continue leaning in,” Chavez said. “But what truly keeps me involved is the people. Being surrounded by passionate, like-minded individuals who genuinely care about serving others pushes me to think bigger, challenge myself, and continue growing.”

YP SUMMIT — JUNE 2-3, SPOKANE, WASH.

Connect with like-minded peers and industry leaders through dedicated networking sessions, elevate your skills and knowledge through a range of workshops, and gain fresh perspectives from industry experts. Embodying the spirit of collaboration and knowledge-sharing, YP Summit fosters personal and professional growth within the Credit Union Movement. Join the network of young professionals passionate about shaping the future of credit unions!

Register Today!

“I initially got involved because I wanted to better understand how advocacy impacts credit unions and our members, and to find ways to contribute beyond my day-to-day role,” said Mary Salas, Director of Internal Controls at Blue Federal Credit Union. “Meeting with legislators and advocating for credit unions and the members we serve is an incredible experience and truly a rush.”

“The value goes far beyond professional development,” Chavez said. “These experiences provide perspective, clarity, and a deeper connection to the purpose behind what we do. They allow you to step outside of your day-to-day responsibilities and see how your work contributes to something much larger.”

Mary Salas at GAC 2025

Salas, who has participated in GAC Crashers and Days at the Capitol, also sees lasting value in the relationships and industry perspective gained. “You gain insight into the bigger picture of our industry while building relationships with YPs and leaders from credit unions across the region,” she explained.

“GoWest events are a valuable investment,” said Jessie Todd, Assistant Branch Manager of Westmark Credit Union, who has participated in Day at the Capitol, GAC, YP Summit, MAXX, YP Leads, and many virtual YP events. “They provide the opportunity to step back and see the bigger picture of the Credit Union Movement. They help reinforce your ‘why’ by connecting the work we do each day to the broader impact we have on people and communities.”

Getting Involved

Chavez encourages young professionals who may feel hesitant to attend their first event to advocate for themselves. “Just ask. It can feel intimidating at first, especially if you’re unsure of the value or how it fits into your role, but these experiences can truly shape your career.”

YP LEADS at MAXX 2026 — OCT. 6-9, DENVER, COLO.

Eighteen young professionals are selected each year to attend MAXX for a high-impact experience focused on learning, networking, and professional development. More than just a conference, YP Leads is designed to help you step into your potential and expand your influence within the Credit Union Movement.

Apply by June 19!

Jessie Todd at the 2025 MAXX CU4Kids Auction

Advocacy events have been especially impactful to attend, according to Salas. “GoWest does an excellent job preparing attendees with resources ahead of time, which makes the conversations confident, informed, and impactful.”

“I felt strongly compelled to apply because I genuinely believe in the impact credit unions have on their members and the communities they serve,” said Todd about why she got involved in her credit union’s Young Professional program. “While I value my role in the branches with our members, I wanted the opportunity to contribute to the broader Credit Union Movement and gain a deeper understanding of the industry as a whole.”

ADVOCACY 101 TRAINING — AUG. 12-13, VIRTUAL

During this two-part virtual workshop, delve into what it means to be a credit union advocate while receiving the tools and training needed to maximize their impact through a personal and credit union-specific engagement strategy. Take the first steps in building the skills and confidence needed to amplify the Credit Union Difference.

Learn more!

Idaho Day at the Capitol 2026

Beyond the knowledge and development she gained, Todd said the network she built through these events has been incredibly valuable. “I’ve stayed connected with many friends I met at YP Summit and through my YP Leads cohort and have continued to engage with them on LinkedIn and through other GoWest events. It’s so exciting to see their successes and celebrate their achievements along the way.”

“We often hear that we are the next generation of leaders,” reflected Chavez, “but in reality, we are the NOW.”

Through GoWest events, chapters, advocacy efforts, and YCUP involvement, young professionals aren’t just preparing for the future of the Credit Union Movement — they are leading within it today.

Posted in Advocacy, Chapters, Events, Leadership, Small Credit Unions, Top Headlines, Young Professionals.