Leaders from San Diego-area credit unions gathered last Friday at North Island Credit Union for a check-drop event and advocacy discussion with California Assemblymember Dr. Darshana Patel.
The meeting brought together executives from CalCoast Credit Union, San Diego County Credit Union, North Island Credit Union, Mission Federal Credit Union, and Arrowhead Credit Union. It was an important opportunity to discuss the industry’s “difference” and how credit unions serve as community contributors in the assemblymember’s district.
The dialogue focused on issues where credit unions are positioned to lead, especially when it comes to empowering small businesses. This includes small business lending and the collective expertise of credit unions as a resource for Patel’s office to support local entrepreneurs and owners.
The group also highlighted their commitment to financial education and community protection. Leaders discussed the necessity of financial education in local schools — a priority echoed by the assemblymember. She noted that constituents of every age stand to benefit from more financial literacy.
The discussion also touched on the rise in financial fraud and the proactive efforts credit unions take to mitigate these events. Patel took note of all the senior scam prevention events hosted by credit unions each year that protect the community’s most vulnerable members.
Patel has a personal connection to the credit union movement. As a long-time credit union member, she shared the sentiment passed down from her father, who taught her that credit unions are “more than just a money lender; they are there to lift you up.”
She also expressed her support for nonprofits coming together to solve local challenges, noting that local collaboration makes sure the government “doesn’t have to do everything.” She emphasized how this approach is more efficient and effective for the community at large.
California’s Credit Unions would like to thank North Island Credit Union for hosting this event! By presenting a united grassroots front, local credit union leaders reinforced their role as community partners in addition to financial service providers.
