President of the Austin Chapter of Credit Unions Shares How Local Credit Unions Will Always Be There to Get Involved and Help the Local Community
Q: How did you first get involved with Austin Habitat for Humanity?
A: Last year was my first opportunity to get involved with Austin Habitat for Humanity and participate in a build day with my credit union, Greater Texas. It was such a rewarding experience! Being a board member for the Austin Chapter of Credit Unions has allowed me another opportunity to get involved with this season’s build. I am looking forward to seeing what we accomplish together this year.
Q: What motivates The Austin Chapter of Credit Unions to be involved with The House that Credit Unions Built?
A: The Austin Chapter of Credit Unions has always made our primary focus and mission to support our local credit unions in anything they do, including any volunteer projects. So when we partnered with Austin Habitat for Humanity for The House that Credit Unions Built, it allowed us a wonderful opportunity to bring our credit unions together for a good cause and support Austin Habitat for Humanity in their fantastic work for our community.
The Austin Chapter of Credit Unions on the Austin Habitat Construction Site
Q: Of the seven cooperative principles which of them are exemplified through this build?
A: I think this build highlights our principle of “Concern for Community” because while we strive to maintain a strong presence for our members and their financial needs, we also want that same impact and level of involvement in our communities. So when there is a need or opportunity to assist, we want everyone to know that you can turn to your local credit union, and they will always be there to get involved and help.
Q: What memory stands out to you from last build season?
A: My favorite memory of the last build season was the Home Dedication ceremony when we met Kirsten the new homeowner. When I showed up to build, I was focused on the task at hand, but it’s not until you meet each other and hear their story that you feel the significant impact of what we have accomplished for them. It made me proud to be a credit union employee and a member of the Austin Chapter.
The Austin Chapter of Credit Unions During the Fall 2020 Home Dedication Ceremony for Habitat Homeowner, Kirsten
Q: How has the affordable housing crisis impacted the work that you do?
A: Credit Unions care about their members, employees, and communities as a whole. The Affordable Housing Crisis has impacted all of us in different ways and now is when our members and communities need us the most. So to me, this is a chance for credit unions all over the Austin area (and beyond) to step up and find ways to assist their members in any way possible. Partnering with Austin Habitat and having The House that Credit Unions Built is such a unique opportunity. We hope it motivates credit unions all over the region to look for similar ways to partner and engage their chapters and credit unions.
Thank you to our Credit Union Partners that help us build affordable housing!
The Austin Chapter of Credit Unions at the Fall 2020 Stud Signing Event
