Message from Cris Wescott
Interim President/CEO
In many ways, the past year seemed similar to how things were prior to the pandemic. Members returned to credit union lobbies, annual fundraising events resumed with strong participation, and our League’s own Convention had its highest turnout in years. On the surface, Maine’s credit union movement may look like it did in 2019, but let me assure you; we have come a long way together since that time. While we’ll always be People Helping People at our core, we are far more nimble, collaborative, and innovative than we ever have been, and our members and state are better for it.
Walt Disney once said, “Times and conditions change so rapidly that we must keep our aim constantly focused on the future.” This is a sentiment at the heart of everything we do at the League on your credit union’s behalf. We know the needs of your members, communities, and even your employees are always evolving. Times can change for better or for worse for those you serve, but no matter the circumstance, it is the League’s job to ensure your credit union has the resources it needs to make a meaningful difference. Whether that is advocating on your behalf in Augusta or Washington, DC; mitigating fraud; managing risk; strengthening your workforce; or raising money to feed your neighbors; we work hard to ensure your credit union remains current and forward-thinking.
Change does not equate to uncertainty. Adapting to it— together— is simply how we overcome challenges, grow and persevere toward a stronger and brighter future. It is also how we, as a credit union movement, ensure members feel valued and cared for in any environment.
Your success and your members’ success fuels ours, and collectively, we have a great deal to be proud of when reflecting on the transformative year that was 2023. This report highlights our triumphs and the efforts made to empower people across Maine to enrich their communities and improve their financial futures. I hope you feel inspired by our collaboration and motivated to do even more together in the year ahead.
It is truly our privilege to help you cultivate a prosperous financial path for your members and communities. Thank you for allowing our League to be a part of your credit union’s evolving journey. We don’t take the opportunity to partner with you for granted.
