Establishing Key Contacts |
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Key Contacts are ordinary citizens who are willing to promote credit union issues and positions to elected officials. Their role can be crucial in making elected officials aware of and have an understanding of the issues about which credit unions are concerned. The best Key Contacts are those who the elected official recognizes and knows by name and who the official will seek out for advice on issues of importance to credit unions. Key Contacts are part of the elected official's "inner circle."
A good Key Contact should be willing to take the time to be well informed on the issues and should have the advocacy skills needed to articulate a position clearly and effectively, to answer questions about the issues and to respond to counter arguments.
Some activities Key Contacts may undertake include:
- Visits with an elected official to advocate for credit unions and for legislation that will enhance their operations. For Members of Congress, these visits may take place in Washington, as well as in the district.
- Attend town hall meetings or forums sponsored by elected officials.
- Write a letter to promote the credit union perspective on a particular issue.
- Provide financial support to a candidate's campaign, perhaps even host a fundraiser for a candidate or current representative.
- Volunteer on a campaign, or coordinate a group of credit union volunteers for a campaign.
- Maintain contact with the league and CUNA regarding all activities.
The top advocacy groups in the country, including the AARP, the Chamber of Commerce and the National Federation of Independent Business, all have one thing in common. They have members in every Congressional district and have identified targeted individuals within their membership who can serve as Key Contacts with their representatives. The Credit Union Movement has the potential to surpass any interest group in the country. Identifying Key Contacts and getting them engaged is crucial to the survival of our movement.
Key Contacts can be anyone.
- A Credit Union CEO or Board Member
- A credit union member who is active in local political, civic or other community activities
- A business association or SEG representative
Your league and CUNA can help you work with your Key Contacts by providing them with regular legislative updates and notifying them when there is an important issue where their involvement can make a difference.
