California, Nevada, and Utah credit union leaders raised more than $79,000 during America’s Credit Unions’ Grand Sweepstakes at last week’s 2026 Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC) in Washington, D.C.
During every GAC, the credit union industry’s annual national political advocacy event — the Grand Sweepstakes — raises funds to support credit union-friendly lawmakers and candidates, boosting America’s Credit Unions’ advocacy outreach over the long term.
The three-state region of California, Nevada, and Utah outperformed national averages during this year’s event. Combined, advocates raised over $79,000, accounting for 23.99 percent of the $329,213 total raised nationwide. This performance means nearly one-quarter of all sweepstakes funds, or roughly $1 out of every $4 dollars raised nationally, originated from these three states.
California continued its streak by taking first place nationally for the eighth consecutive year. The state’s advocates raised $61,221, successfully surpassing the $60,000 goal. This total represents a 21-percent increase over the previous year’s contributions, fueled by more than 100 donors.
Nevada also showed strong results, securing ninth place in the national rankings. Credit union leaders raised $10,021, which exceeded their $9,500 fundraising goal. This performance marked a 19-percent improvement over last year, with 16 donors contributing.
Utah stood out, taking 11th place. While no goal was set for the state, Utah advocates raised $7,840. This total is a 236-percent increase over last year’s fundraising levels, achieved through the support of 12 donors.
This year’s sweepstakes winners represented a wide array of credit unions. Recognized winners include: Todd Sorenson of Elko Federal Credit Union, Traci Olszowy of Credit Union of Southern California, Nicole Cypers of America First Federal Credit Union, Grace Flores of Pacific Service Credit Union, Betty Percifield of Desert Valleys Federal Credit Union, Jennifer Denoo of Great Basin Federal Credit Union, and Warren Jeffers of Patelco Credit Union.
“We would like to thank every donor for their outstanding support during this year’s GAC Grand Sweepstakes,” said Angelica Pappalardo, political advocacy manager for California and Nevada’s Credit Unions. “Because of contributors like you, the credit union movement can continue advocating for its members every year in local districts and on Capitol Hill.”
Click here to view this year’s donor list!
California and Nevada’s Credit Unions — and Utah’s Credit Unions — look forward to engaging members on the advocacy fundraising front throughout 2026 as they support credit union-friendly candidates at the state and federal levels.
