Credit Union’s 87th Annual Meeting held

By Sophia Cortez-Holmes Longshore
HIGH PLAINS NEWS NORTH
On a stormy Monday night, plenty of Holyoke and Imperial Credit Union members and community associates bore the elements to join the 87th Annual Credit Union Meeting.
Although this annual gathering is a regulatory requirement, the Credit Union takes the time to encourage its members to come out and learn with a warm meal, some entertaining games, and plenty of cash prizes!
Around 200 folks showed up for the delicious dinner catered by Happy Jacks Barbecue and more than 130 stayed for the meeting to discuss important topics to assist folks in their personal and business growth in their financial activity.
“It is an opportunity to let members know how we performed last year, discuss growth, and explore some industry hot topics like the rise of fraud,” said Randy Hale, President of the Holyoke Credit Union. John Martin, Chairperson of the Board of Directors, said about the last year, “2024 carried with it quite a few regulation changes for the financial industry. Our Board of Directors is diligent in reviewing the changes to Federal and State policies ensuring that our Credit Union remains in compliance… (Our regulatory exam report) came back with some minor recommendations for improvement, but our Credit Union is performing well in an ever-changing financial environment.”
The Credit Union hopes to manage profitability compared to asset growth and continue to help and educate members on necessary topics.
This includes how to use the decrease of the prime rate by the Federal Reserve in your favor and making the correct choices when setting borrowing terms. For example, as of now, the shorter you can lock your higher borrowing rate in for, the sooner you can take advantage of lowering borrowing rates.
They also mention the responsibility to look out for the elderly and special needs folks to help prevent criminals from taking advantage of them.
In addition to getting fed a hot meal, attendees had chances to win some of the $1,600 worth of cash prizes given out.
“We try to keep it short and hit the hot topics and have some fun festivities” explained Hale, as he described having door prizes, a money machine, and a Wheel of Fortune-style game with cash prizes. They also took the time to honor the new 50-year members for their loyalty to the Credit Union, giving them a certificate and a special gift.
In the future, the Credit Union strives to add new members, particularly of the younger generations, and continue to serve our communities to the best of their ability.
If you have questions concerning finances and specifically fraud, do not be afraid to call the Holyoke location at (970)-854-3109 or the Imperial branch at (308)-882-6633.
For worries about fraud, call (844)-279-9845 as soon as possible.