This episode of the CUNA News Podcast continues the discussion about Advancing Communities, an initiative launched by America’s Credit Unions. Advancing Communities encourages credit unions to share stories of economic prosperity, community support, and financial well-being. Credit unions around the country have drawn inspiration from the initiative to make real differences for their members and communities.

The episode features Cheryl Deborde, president and CEO of Members Choice Credit Union in Ashland, Kentucky.

She explains the importance of Advancing Communities and shares some of the ways Member Choice has supported members, small businesses, and the community during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and other challenging times.

As the 2021 Credit Union Hero of the Year, Deborde also connects the philosophy behind Advancing Communities to the qualities that set Credit Union Heroes apart.

You can listen to the CUNA News Podcast in Apple's iTunes Store, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Stitcher Radio.

In this episode:

1:27: The importance of Advancing Communities

2:17: Address community challenges

3:58: Building on existing strengths

4:48: Small gestures, big impacts

5:46: Positive member feedback

6:39: Making homeownership happen

7:44: “Let the lawmakers know”

8:46: Next steps for Members Choice

11:25: Qualities of a Credit Union Hero

13:48: Success requires the whole credit union

14:20: Financial well-being at the state level