Crashers Continuously Look for Opportunities to Promote the Credit Union Philosophy

Robert Lefkowicz
June 9, 2011 | COMMENTS

We’re not wedding crashers. We’re a growing group of more than 120 highly motivated young credit union professionals with a severe case of credit union fever.

Crash members are all uniquely significant, yet each of us carries the resolve and motivation to be the next wave in credit union leadership. We don’t accept this charge lightly and Crashers know it has to be earned.

Crashers are here to learn, listen, grow, and not be afraid to add value and insight into today’s credit union system.

The Crash Network has grown from Brent Dixon’s (Filene Research Institute’s Young Adult
Advisor) initial vision to being a nationwide cross section of the credit union industry. We boast members from credit union trade associations, service providers, state leagues, and credit unions. The network is consistently looking for new ways to add value to the credit union movement and enroll new energetic members.

The successes of the Crash Network are judged based on results and action. We take words and conversations and make them a reality through meet-ups, mentorships, online collaboration, and project development. The homework of a Crasher is never done until their ideas are brought to fruition.

The highlights of the Network are “crashing” the establishment at national credit union industry
events. Most recently, 15 members took on the 2011 CUNA Governmental Affairs Conference
and won. These members brought the Crash ideas, philosophy, and image front and center to the leaders of the credit union industry.

The Network looks forward to opportunities for its members to attend future events. We are continuously looking for new opportunities to promote the credit union philosophy, establish business partnerships so that we can provide opportunities for our young leaders, provide networking and professional development opportunities, and recruit motivated and energetic members.

There are multiple ways to get involved, such as suggesting development opportunities, creating partnerships with the Crash network, or becoming a member. A favorite quote of the Crash Network is from Edward Filene: “Youth is too serious to be obedient.” So don’t miss an opportunity to connect with the Crash Network. Sound interesting? Check us out at www.crash.coop.

Robert Lefkowicz is service center manager for Suncoast Schools Federal Credit Union and a member of the Crash Network. Reprinted from the newsletter of Card Services for Credit Unions.