VANCOUVER, British Columbia—In a momentous gathering at the 2023 World Credit Union Conference, the Executive Director of the Worldwide Foundation for Credit Unions (WFCU), Mike Reuter, implored attendees to embrace a unique credit union journey by contributing to the fundraising campaign for the momentous 75th anniversary of International Credit Union Day.
The campaign’s ambitious objectives aim to bolster financial inclusion, address credit union crises, and provide solutions to the movement’s most pressing challenges. Reuter urged participants to rally behind the belief that they are “stronger together than we are apart,” highlighting the significance of International Credit Union Day as an opportune occasion to celebrate the collective strength of the global credit union community while acknowledging the ongoing work that lies ahead.
Generous contributions to WFCU’s fundraising campaign will be gathered in preparation for the grand celebrations on Thursday, October 19. Reuter took the opportunity to illustrate the tangible impact of past donations, recounting how they were instrumental in supporting Ukrainian credit unions during times of conflict and fostering collaboration among credit union professionals from diverse countries and regions.
One groundbreaking initiative that WFCU, in partnership with the World Council’s Member Services department, unveiled during the event is called “Global Bridges.” This transformative program offers an array of personalized journey experiences designed to address specific themes and unique requirements of credit unions worldwide. The aim is to empower credit union staff, nurture talent retention, and equip credit unions with enhanced global insights to strengthen their operations.
During her keynote address, sociological trends expert Kim Lear highlighted the evolving needs of the incoming Generation Z workforce—a group credit unions must adapt to attract and retain top talent. Lear observed that many Gen Z candidates have a close bond with their parents, who significantly influence their career decisions. Forward-thinking organizations are proactively addressing parents’ concerns about factors such as dental and retirement plans to tailor their offers effectively.
Lear also pointed out that Generation Z’s exposure to the internet and social media has expanded their worldview, leading them to seek local connections and a sense of community. For credit unions, leveraging their position as a vital component of the local community can be a compelling selling point in attracting young talent.
As the 75th anniversary of International Credit Union Day approaches, credit unions around the world are invited to join hands in support of WFCU’s fundraising campaign. Embracing this opportunity will not only fortify the global credit union movement but also drive progress towards a more inclusive and secure financial future for all. The collective efforts of credit unions in this journey will undoubtedly pave the way for a brighter and more prosperous tomorrow.
Rashmi Mishra
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