As members’ economic challenges continue to mount, credit union financial counselors gathered at the second annual THRIVE Summit, hosted by the MD|DC Credit Union Association, to gain insights, develop strategies, and explore solutions aimed at providing stronger support during difficult times.

Economist Mike Schenk opened the Summit by highlighting the pivotal role credit unions have historically played in guiding members through financial challenges, from the Great Depression to today’s uncertain economy. While key economic indicators remain strong, he noted that consumer confidence declined for the fourth consecutive month in March 2024, reaching its lowest point in four years. Schenk urged credit unions to grow with purpose, urging them to stay true to their mission of ‘people helping people,’ especially during times of uncertainty.

Keisha Bross from the NAACP echoed that sentiment, saying credit unions are uniquely positioned to support members facing financial hardship.

Ann Solomon of Secoya Partners shared powerful insights on how the Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund can deepen credit union impact in underserved communities.

Carl Windom, the Founder/CEO of Windom Wisdom, LLC, emphasized the importance of actively listening to members and gaining an understanding of their needs in order to develop highly personalized financial solutions. He encouraged financial counselors to adopt a transformational approach, one that goes beyond simply sharing information to genuinely empowering members.

The Association would like to thanks to the following credit unions for attending:

• APG Federal Credit Union
• Andrews Federal Credit Union
• APL Federal Credit Union
• Labor Credit Union
• Educational Systems Federal Credit Union
• FedChoice Federal Credit Union
• Johns Hopkins Federal Credit Union
• Market USA Federal Credit Union
• MECU Credit Union
• SkyPoint Federal Credit Union
• Spectra Credit Union
• Tower Federal Credit Union
• WEPCO Federal Credit Union

The Association appreciates the support of Summit sponsors: MECU Credit Union and TruStage, as well as Summit exhibitors: CASH Campaign, GreenPath Financial Wellness and McKenna Marketing Network.