More information on Project Zip Code

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More Information on Project Zip Code

In 1997-1998, Credit Unions throughout the United States used district matching to target its membership communications with the U.S. Congress. Since then and in the future, Credit Unions will face battles at both the federal and state legislative levels. Again, targeting grassroots communications will provide an important edge to credit unions.

Using the technology available in 1997, local credit unions were required to ship anonymous address data to a central location for processing. This cumbersome and expensive process forced a complete examination of Project Zip Code and an investigation into alternative approaches and solutions.

Credit Union Look-Up Tool

CUNA has worked with Legislative Demographic Services (LDS) to design a new resource for leagues and credit unions that will match credit union members to their Federal and State Legislators. The program offers the following advantages to member organizations:

Maintains the security and privacy of member data. There will be no transfer of any data components to CUNA or LDS for the purpose of matching, as was the case in the 1997-1998 program. All data will remain on the participant's network.
Activated through an Internet connection that provides CUNA and leagues with summary reports of membership strength by state and federal legislative districts.
Allows search and selection of members by legislative district, legislative committee and also prepare standard reports.
Can prepare selected records for use by word processing and other database products.

Pilot Program

In the past year, CUNA, LDS and the following states, California, Michigan, North Carolina, Texas, Vermont, and Washington, have completed beta testing. Appropriate changes have been made to ensure credit unions can easily load Project Zip Code on their computer and use the information provided. Not only can the information gathered through Project Zip Code be used in a political manner when meeting with elected officials, but also to help credit unions identify potential areas for branch or ATM expansion.

Roll Out

CUNA presented Project Zip Code at the Governmental Affairs Conference in February 2002. Project Zip Code software and user manual (on CD) are included in this package. With your help, credit unions, Leagues and CUNA will know how many credit union members are in each state and congressional district. It's up to you to participate in this important program. See your State League for more information.

America's Credit Unions: Where people are worth more than money