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Spring Breaks and Storytelling (The Official Version)
Thanks, Michelle, for jumping in with the Parting Shot last week while I was out on Spring Break with my family. We enjoyed Southwest Montana and the beautiful weather for hiking, biking, camping, as well as cooking and reading! It was a perfect week!
Michelle talked about storytelling in her Parting Shot last week, and I want to build on that from my Spring Break adventures — because storytelling about credit unions never stops! In fact, I had several opportunities last week to talk about YOU and the work you do in your communities around the state. I had coffee with a friend of mine, who is an entrepreneur in construction. He directly asked me what a credit union was and how it was different from a bank. Another friend is looking for his first mortgage, and we talked about several credit union options in our area. A friend from church, who recently lost her husband, asked me about options for helping her talk through her next steps — again, credit unions came to the forefront of that conversation!
My youngest son, Kole, asked me to help him do his taxes for the first time, and we talked about what to do with his refund. He’s putting it in his credit union account! Then, while camping south of Big Timber, a couple of MSU students (Go Cats!) asked me about financial advice for loans and savings. We had a robust discussion along the Boulder River about credit unions!
This week is no exception to storytelling! Karen and I had the opportunity to meet with Governor Gianforte to talk about Montana’s Credit Unions and our priorities for this year and next as we head into the 2027 legislative session. We were able to highlight the #CUDifference with him and tell stories about you! I participated in a fundraiser on Monday for a state senator who has been a credit union champion. On Wednesday, we are holding our League Orientation to showcase credit unions and our work across the state. Later this morning, I am meeting with a fintech partner to talk about credit unions and their work in supporting Montanans.
Credit union conversations happen anywhere and anytime. Telling the credit union story is easy because we have a great story to tell: “Credit unions are the best option to improve the financial well-being of every Montanan. Let me show you how…” Take some time now to reflect on your “credit union elevator pitch” and look for opportunities next week to tell your story. Let me know how it goes!
Have a wonderful weekend.
Cooperatively, Gerry
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