WASHINGTON — Credit Union House is marking its 25th anniversary this year, and its chairman offered an update on progress being made as part of a multi-million-dollar renovation.
In remarks to America’s Credit Unions Governmental Affairs Conference, Troy Stang, president and CEO of GoWest Credit Union Association and chairman of Credit Union House, said the milestone reflects both the history and future of the cooperative finance movement.
“Credit Union House turns 25 years old this year,” Stang said, calling it a symbol of cooperative finance “all delivered with a human touch each and every day.” He said he hopes credit unions are proud of how far the movement has come in creating and sustaining a dedicated space on Capitol Hill.
Stang described Credit Union House as “your house on Capitol Hill,” a place where the movement comes together to tell its story and advocate for key priorities. Those include affordability, fraud prevention and support for cooperative finance, as well as advancing public policy priorities before members of Congress and other policymakers.
The organization’s continued presence, he said, has been made possible by the support of credit unions nationwide, as well as business partners and America’s Credit Unions. Stang noted that 100% of leagues across the country have contributed to the effort.
$13-Million Renovation
One year ago, leaders announced a $13.5 million campaign to modernize the facility. Stang said that in just 12 months, the credit union system has raised more than 80% of that goal — approximately $11 million.
“Give yourselves a huge round of applause,” Stang said, thanking credit unions for their financial support and investment in what he described as a unified voice for the industry in Washington.
He emphasized that while significant progress has been made, the campaign has not yet reached its target. Leaders are continuing to seek support to close the remaining gap before construction begins.
A Year from Completion
On behalf of the leadership of Credit Union House, Stang expressed appreciation for the industry’s backing of the modernization effort, saying the investment demonstrates credit unions’ belief in the importance of maintaining a strong, visible presence on Capitol Hill.
If fundraising continues at its current pace, Stang said leaders hope to break ground soon and invite supporters back in about a year to see the completed modernization.
Looking Good at 40: Credit Unions for Kids
Separately, a cause near and dear to many in credit unions—and to even more children—is marking its 40th anniversary this year. Caroline Willard, president and CEO of the Cornerstone League, and board chair of Credit Unions for Kids.
In remarks to America’s Credit Unions’ GAC, Caroline Willard, president and CEO of the Cornerstone League, and board chair of Credit Unions for Kids. Noted it’s been four decades since some credit unions in Portland, Ore. stepped up to support an employee’s child being treated at Doernbecher Children’s Hospital.
“That simple act of compassion sparked a movement, and 40 years later credit unions across the country have raised more than $225 million (for CU4Kids),” said Willard. “That impacts millions of kids and the families, and it transforms pediatric care. But this is about more than healthcare. The number-one cause of financial hardship in the United States is medical costs. When you support Credit Unions for Kids, you’re not just funding care, you’re protecting families, you’re strengthening communities, you’re living out credit union mission in action.
‘Be a Part of What’s Next’
“To everyone who has volunteered, donated, supported, sponsored and/or hosted an event, thank you,” Willard said. “You are the reason we are celebrating 40 successful years and if you haven’t joined us yet now’s the time to visit CU4Kidss.org and be a part of what’s next.”
