State Leagues Statement of Commitment to Members

• NEW JERSEY CREDIT UNION LEAGUE
• NORTH CAROLINA CREDIT UNION LEAGUE
• NORTH DAKOTA CREDIT UNION LEAGUE
• OKLAHOMA CREDIT UNION LEAGUE

As a member-owned trade association of the credit unions of New Jersey, New Jersey Credit Union League (NJCUL) is committed to providing excellent service to our members. Our mission is to assure the vitality and future success of New Jersey credit unions by being their primary source of services, information, education and representation. We will uphold our fundamental responsibility to actively serve our affiliated credit unions and their members. We will treat all of our affiliates with respect and dignity and we will strive to offer the highest level of service possible at all times. We will use our expertise in credit union matters to promote, provide, or endorse only those products or services best suited for New Jersey’s credit unions. We will look for better ways to reach out to all credit unions in our state, and continually look for ways to promote cooperation. Further, NJCUL will continually, in all facets of operations, demonstrate the value of membership in our organization.

We will monitor and communicate our service to members in a meaningful way so that members, potential members, legislators, regulators, and the community-at-large will understand and appreciate the unique role that member-owned financial cooperatives play in their lives.

Throughout NJCUL’s strategic plan, we will put forth every effort to enable our affiliates to become financially sound and successful in dealing with their respective members. We will place high importance on promoting the values of our industry, which include consumer education and the teaching of financial thrift.

This Statement of Commitment is consistent with the credit union industry’s principles of "Not For Profit, Not For Charity, But For Service" and our philosophy of "People Helping People". This statement represents our mission to ensure the collective strength of our state’s credit unions.

Section 1: Service to Members

NJCUL strives to offer services designed to improve the economic, regulatory, educational and social well being of all our affiliates. This includes credit unions representing all socio-economic backgrounds, including low- and moderate-income members. Our goal is to see that each affiliate has the tools they need to provide the return and financial value to all those who participate in member-owned financial cooperatives.

NJCUL currently provides the following services to help improve the economic and social well-being of our members:

• Governmental Affairs Activities
• Legislative Watch
• Regulatory Compliance and Updates
• Media and Public Relation
• News and Information
• Education, Training and Development
• Conferences and Workshops
• Conduit of Quality Products and Services
• Support and Direction
• Information Dissemination

Section II: Member Credit Union Education

NJCUL is committed to our member credit unions’ education; in addition we are committed to educating all financial services consumers about credit union uniqueness, philosophy, and values.

Current Activities that Support Member Credit Union Education:

• Annual Education calendar filled with approximately 30+ training seminars held at League office
• Annual Meeting & Convention gathering approximately 1200 individuals for education, exhibits and entertainment
• Five various councils which host meetings for networking and education purposes
• Small credit union education discount program offering a 15% discount to credit unions under $5 million in assets
• Certificate programs offered in conjunction with CUNA & Affiliates to give credit union personnel a self-study training program. This includes the STAR, MERIT and VAP programs.
• Annual Leadership Conference and Directors' & Volunteers' Retreat
• Youth Involvement Board activities such as the NEFE High School Financial Planning Program and Scholarship Program

New Education Activities Planned for the Future:

• Expanded education calendar to include sessions in the north and south regions of New Jersey
• Youth Ambassador Program to promote the credit union philosophy to a new generation
• Extensive selection of education sessions at Annual Meeting & Convention
• Leadership Conference and Directors' & Volunteers' Retreat to be held in Mystic Seaport, Connecticut in 2002

Section III: Legislative Support

NJCUL will endeavor to preserve credit union democratic principles, including demographic representation and volunteer participation in credit union activities.

Current Activities that support credit unions on the legislative level:

New Diversity-Related Activities planned for the Future:

Section V: Commitment to the Credit Union Movement

As a conduit to credit unions throughout our state, NJCUL will work to continually build the credit union movement by providing the necessary resources, information, expertise and education.

Activities that support the Credit Union Movement:

• Political activity and fundraising to ensure that New Jersey’s politicians understand the value, strength and uniqueness of credit unions and their membership.
• Facilitate relationships between credit unions of various sizes and diversity provide a way for members to benefit from sharing ideas and knowledge, as well as provide guidance, leadership, and technical assistance.
• CUANJ works with groups seeking to form new credit unions or find an existing credit union that would be a good match. We provide guidance and direction through consulting, logistical, regulatory guidance and paperwork.
• The league has chapters that are organized in districts across the state. These chapters function autonomously and provide an opportunity for credit union staff and volunteers to meet and network with their peers, and learn about current issues. Chapters also provide an opportunity for credit union staff and volunteers to develop leadership skills as chapter officials.
• Political involvement is an activity that in many ways defines the critical nature of the league. Thorough our leadership and coordination efforts, New Jersey credit unions have worked to support the passage of many bills critical to the movement, both locally and nationally. Other political involvement activities include fund-raising for our PAC, Hike the Hill program and Credit Union Day at the State House. Through recent lobbying efforts, the League was successful in getting a bill passed that now recognizes the third Thursday of every October as New Jersey Credit Union Day.
• Recognition is an important role that the League plays in supporting the credit union movement statewide. Through our monthly newsletter “The Exchange”, the League often recognizes the accomplishments and efforts of our affiliates. At our annual convention we also recognize credit union's, their staffs and volunteers for with several awards each year. These awards recognize community involvement, commitment to the credit union philosophy, leadership and outstanding accomplishments.

Section VI: Public & Media Relations

Through direct financial support or other in-kind contributions to worthwhile local organizations, and by participating in public service activities, NJCUL strives to be an active partner in our community. We recognize that practicing good Corporate Citizenship supports the Credit Union Philosophy of People Helping People; furthermore, it will help raise the overall level of social and economic well being of those in our community, help to strengthen ties within the community, and better position us to reach out and serve – as only credit unions can – those people in greatest need of affordable financial services. In addition, Credit Union Affiliates of New Jersey actively works to raise public awareness of the credit union movement by encouraging coverage by local and national news services.

Community/FOM Groups Currently Receiving Financial or Other In-Kind Support (including the support given) and Current Media Related Activities:

1. Press releases
2. Support of the Children’s Miracle Network through the Credit Unions for Kids program
3. Production of informative monthly publications, “Exchange” and “ActionPack”
4. Assists credit unions with special events and projects-providing media coverage.
5. Maintains and develops website to provide information to the public

New Public Service and Media Activities Planned for the future:

1. CUANJ Media Guide
2. Redesign of NJCUL web site
3. Production of voter’s guide
4. CULAC 1151 Information Kit
5. Ad/marketing campaign for NJ credit unions through news/radio coverage
6. New fundraising activities to benefit CMN

The North Carolina Credit Union Network values the privilege of serving our member credit unions. We take our responsibility as your credit union's trade association very seriously. We will continue to work as your activist in the financial service arena to ensure that North Carolina's consumers have access to credit unions and that credit unions retain their strength both politically and financially.

We recognize the need to provide a wide range of products and services, to meet the varying needs of our member credit unions. And, we are committed to ensuring the availability of these kinds of quality products and services.

We will communicate our services to member credit unions in a meaningful way so that members, potential members, legislators, regulators, and the community at large will understand and appreciate the unique role that member-owned financial cooperatives play in their lives and community.

Your Network is financially strong, politically active and prepared to work with our member credit unions in developing cooperative solutions to overcome obstacles and meet your credit unions' goals.

This Statement of Commitment to Members is consistent with our commitment to the "People Helping People" concept of credit unions as cooperative financial organizations. Our purpose is to provide credit unions with a favorable operating environment and quality products and services that enable credit unions to exist and prosper in the financial marketplace.

I. Service to Members

Following are several programs and services designed to improve the economic and social well being of credit unions and return financial value to our members.

1. Strategic Partnership: Membership in the North Carolina Credit Union Network provides access to strategic partners in the credit union industry. This cooperative effort involves;
   CUNA & Affiliates - The largest national credit union trade association. Membership in the NC Credit Union League also provides the benefit of membership with CUNA & Affiliates. CUNA provides member credit unions with powerful governmental and regulatory representation on a national level, as well as, educational opportunities. CUNA is also home to the World Council of Credit Unions, Defense Credit Union Council, the National Credit Union Foundation, and the Association of Corporate Credit Unions.
   Credit Union Service Corporation - A subsidiary of the NC Credit Union League, as a partner in our commitment to North Carolina's credit unions, CUSC offers credit unions cooperative access to valuable products, services, and education which benefit credit union membership, staff, and volunteers.
   CUNA Mutual - A leader in the insurance industry, CUNA Mutual offers credit unions insurance coverage's ranging from; property and casualty to fidelity bonds. CUNA Mutual also offers operational forms from deposit accounts to loans, marketing support, and investment services.
   First Carolina Corporate Credit Union - The credit unions' "credit union". A billion dollar financial intermediary that provides essential wholesale support in the areas of investment, settlement, and credit services for credit unions.
   Carolina Credit Union Services - A shared branch network whereby, investing credit unions can offer their members access to financial services statewide.
2. Share Draft Program: We provide access to economical Share Draft processing for your credit union.
3. Technical Assistance Program - Corporate Account Reconciliation, General Ledger Reconciliation, Research Assistance, and Audit Recommendations.
4. Audit Services - Trained credit union auditors who perform your yearly audit and perform account verifications for your credit union.
5. Marketing Services - The expertise and resources to assist your credit union in producing your newsletters, marketing pieces, business stationery, and promotional items.
6. Compliance - We provide recommendations and assistance to credit unions with compliance questions and regulatory issues, policy and procedure guidance, facilitate participation in the regulatory comment process, and interface with regulators.
7. Publications - We produce a monthly newsletter entitled FOCUS to provide you with current news and updates for the NC credit union system. The Carolinian is produced quarterly with an emphasis on happenings throughout North Carolina's credit unions.
8. Financial Products - Through a cooperative effort of credit unions the Network is able to offer member credit unions access to cost effective financial products such as debit cards, credit cards, website design, and home banking.
9. Credit Union Access - The Network serves as an information clearing house and referral system for consumers and businesses interested in learning more about credit union access and credit unions in their area.
10. Credit Union Careers - We provide credit unions and applicants a system of referrals and advertisements for employment opportunities.
11. Alternative Delivery - We are working to offer alternative methods of delivery for Network communications, to ensure that each credit union receives information in the most convenient and efficient manner.

II. Member Education

The North Carolina Credit Union Network is committed to education and training. We will continue to provide high quality educational sessions at affordable prices to meet the needs of our member credit unions' staff and volunteers.

1. Education sessions for operational staff - Educational opportunities are available for staff and volunteers from Accounting and Member Services to basic Spanish.
2. State Governmental Affairs Conference - Affords credit unions the opportunity to meet their representatives from the NC General Assembly and learn about legislative issues on the state level.
3. Councils - Designed to allow credit unions an opportunity to meet and learn from their peers within our industry. Councils currently meeting are; Marketing, Collections, Compliance, Technology, and Lending.
4. Credit Union Executive Society meetings - Held twice a year to provide credit union managers with up-to-date information on issues ranging from human resource challenges to security concerns and regulations.
5. Regulatory Publications and Training - Updates on regulatory issues are published monthly in FOCUS. Compliance training to member credit unions for their staff.
6. Volunteers' Conference - Presents credit union volunteers with the opportunity to further their understanding of credit union operations and learn more about current issues impacting volunteers.
7. Annual Meeting - A unique educational opportunity. Several educational tracks are presented for managers and volunteers alike to gather and exchange ideas.

III. Involvement and Governance

Credit unions have an important voice in the direction of the Network and the North Carolina credit union system. The following governing bodies were established to provide guidance and leadership to the respective areas of the movement.

1. Town Meetings - The Network management team schedules several meetings throughout the year and invites credit unions from across the state to share their ideas and provide input for the direction of their trade association.
2. Board of Directors' Elections - All credit unions are afforded the opportunity to nominate a candidate or seek election to the Board of Directors. Directors are elected from a majority vote of their peers.
3. Governmental Affairs Committee - Established to review the impact of current legislative activity on the state and federal level and provide recommendations to the Board of Directors.
4. Annual Meeting Advisory Committee - To review evaluations from the previous annual meeting and provide input to the staff and BOD regarding education sessions, agenda, and activities for the next annual meeting.
5. Bylaws Committee - Reviews recommendations and provides technical drafting recommendations with respect to the bylaws.
6. Awards Committee - Publicizes and makes recommendations regarding "Credit Union Person of the Year" and other annual awards.
7. Council Executive Committees - Representatives from each council are elected from their peers to provide leadership and guidance to the respective councils.

IV. Commitment to the Credit Union Movement

The North Carolina Credit Union Network will work to build and strengthen a unique credit union movement by providing and utilizing resources within the credit union community.

1. Strategic Credit Union Task Force - A new initiative for 2000. A collaborative effort of Network resources, regulators, advocates, and representatives from credit unions formed to address the needs and challenges of credit unions.
2. Political Activity and Fundraising - As your advocate we are continually working to ensure that credit unions have a place at the political table. We work to ensure that North Carolina's politicians understand the value and strength of credit unions and their membership.
3. Mentoring - By facilitating relationships between credit unions of various asset ranges, members have the opportunity to benefit from the sharing of knowledge, guidance, leadership, and technical assistance.
4. Cooperative Call to Action - Credit unions statewide contribute to this campaign. By pooling credit union financial resources the Network is able to function as a central point to conduct credit union member opinion polls, press conferences on significant events involving credit unions statewide and advertising.
5. New Credit Union Chartering - Your Network works with groups seeking to form a new credit union. We provide logistical and regulatory guidance and work to facilitate mentoring relationships between other credit unions. This cooperative effort has resulted in the formation of three new credit unions in North Carolina since 1999.
6. Credit Union Chapters - The Network is home to eight Credit Union Chapters that are organized regionally across the state. Chapters function autonomously and provide an opportunity for credit union staff and volunteers to meet and network with their peers, and learn about current issues. Chapters also provide an opportunity for credit union staff and volunteers to develop leadership skills as chapter officials.
7. Political Involvement - The Network and several credit unions worked to support the passage of predatory lending legislation by the North Carolina General Assembly. In 1999 we expanded our political action programs to include "Hike the Hill" and "Deduct a Buck".
8. National Credit Union Foundation - Through an ongoing commitment to promote consumer financial education and services through credit unions the NC Credit Union Foundation has formed a partnership with the National Credit Union Foundation. Together we have worked to promote funding of the Community Investment Fund (CIF). The CIF was established to build a supply of resources to meet the growing demands of credit union development. To date 9 North Carolina credit unions have made a commitment to invest in the CIF.
9. World Council of Credit Unions - The Network has an ongoing commitment to work on behalf of North Carolina credit unions to provide support and empower the credit union movement worldwide. Through a People to People partnership credit union representatives from North Carolina have traveled to Suriname, South America to provide training to the credit union and Board of Directors and share ideas about how to strengthen and promote the success of the credit union. This has resulted in ongoing agreement to work together for the betterment of the Suriname credit unions.
10. Recognition - The Network recognizes credit union's, their staff and volunteers for several awards each year. These awards recognize community involvement, commitment to the philosophy of "People Helping People", sustained leadership, and outstanding accomplishments on behalf of credit union career and volunteer staff. Recognition is presented through the following awards: Louise Herring, Dora Maxwell, Credit Union Persons of the Year (Volunteer and Career), and Mark of Excellence.

V. Diversity

The North Carolina Credit Union Network recognizes the value of diversity in the programs that we offer, products and services that we provide, our Board of Directors representation, and staff members that we employ. We will demonstrate our commitment to our member credit unions by continually focusing on meeting the diverse needs of our member credit unions.

1. Equal Employment Opportunity - NCCUN actively seeks to provide a favorable working environment for staff as an Equal Opportunity Employer.
2. Governing - The NC Credit Union League is represented by a diverse group of credit union leaders within North Carolina. Members are afforded the opportunity to elect leaders annually from representation across the state.
3. Latino Community Credit Union - In partnership with the Network, NC Credit Union Foundation, the National Credit Union Foundation, state and federal regulators, and credit union and community leaders, the Latino Community Credit Union received its operating charter in February 2000. The first ever credit union chartered in NC targeted to serve the growing Latino population. The Latino Community Credit Union provides access to bilingual financial services specifically to meet the needs of the Latino population.
4. Latino Community Education - In connection with the Latino Community Credit Union the Network worked in 2000 to provide education and guidance to serving the Latino population. The Network provided seminars in "Serving the Latino Population" and "Basic Spanish", and in partnership with the National and NC Credit Union Foundations, and Self-Help Credit Union worked to secure funding a national foundation for the formation of a model "Latino Community Credit Union" plan.
5. NC Minority Support Center - The NCMSC is the center of operational support and assistance for many of North Carolina's community development credit unions. The Network and NCMSC work together to identify areas of need, provide assistance, and form mentoring relationships between credit unions. In 1999 the Network and NCMSC worked together to form a NC Credit Union Chartering Checklist. Since its inception three credit unions have been successfully chartered and are operating, and one additional group is in the process of applying for a charter from the state regulator.

VI. Community Involvement Commitment

The North Carolina Credit Union Network strives to be an active partner in our community. We recognize that practicing good Corporate Citizenship supports the credit union philosophy. We will also work on behalf of member credit unions to raise the overall level of credit union support of the social awareness projects through the NC Credit Union Foundation.

1. NC Credit Union Foundation - The Foundation is the fund-raising arm of the Network. The foundation serves as a conduit for credit union fund-raising efforts. Contributions received from staff and others are used to support several social awareness projects such as;
   KidsFirst - This program represents services that address educational opportunities and programs that focus on the needs of children.
   The Scholar Vision Fund - A collection of funds and resources established to help NC Credit Union members achieve a higher level of education.
   Community Aid Grants - A resource for credit unions and communities in need of help for recovery from man made or natural disasters.
   Children's Miracle Network - A new commitment for 2000. The mission of the CMN is to generate funds and awareness programs to benefit children and CMN affiliated hospitals. Children in these hospitals are treated based on need, not ability to pay. The Foundation works to get credit unions involved through the Credit Unions for Kids campaign.
2. The United Way - The Network staff make a strong commitment each year to support the efforts of the United Way locally. In 1998 and 1999, the Network was recognized as a pacesetter company in our community and achieved the Gold Award level of support by raising over $16,000 in staff contributions.
3. Local Community - Network staff have been supporting organizations in the local Greensboro, High Point community every year for the past five years. These organizations include; The Claire House Women's Shelter in Greensboro, High Point Women's Shelter, Salvation Army Food Bank, Channel 8 Cynthia's Kids Toys for Children, Guilford County School Lunch Buddy program; and in 1999, the Network staff provided financial and personal donations to two families that were victims of Hurricane Floyd.
4. The Duke Project - Beginning in 1987, the Network spearheaded an effort to raise funds for Duke University Hospital. As a joint effort with North Carolina credit unions we raised over $500,000 during a six-year commitment to the project. The funds were used to establish the - Pediatric Bone Marrow Research Laboratory at Duke University Hospital.
5. Prevent Child Abuse - Through the Foundation credit unions statewide have worked throughout the past five years to support the efforts of Prevent Child Abuse North Carolina (PCANC). Credit union support has enabled PCANC to purchase "Winnie" a Winnebago designed to travel throughout the state and educate persons about child abuse. Credit unions statewide have raised more than $525,000 for PCANC.
6. Flood Relief - The Foundation worked in 1999 to help credit unions, credit union employees, and volunteers overcome the tragedy of the flooding resulting from Hurricane Floyd. The relief effort resulted in over $160,000 raised. These funds were also used to assist organizations that provided support to credit unions and their members.

We, the North Dakota Credit Union League, a member-owned, not-for profit trade association representing North Dakota credit unions, exists solely to meet the needs and represent the interests of credit unions. Our mission is to act in partnership with credit unions, promote the philosophy and uniqueness of credit unions, and successfully meet present and future challenges by providing quality education, legislative leadership, and reliable dues-supported services and products.

We will uphold our fundamental responsibility to actively serve our member credit unions and will continually strive to provide them with quality products and services. We will communicate the credit union difference in our state and in our nation’s Capitol so that credit union members, potential members, legislators, regulators, and the community at large will understand the unique role that member-owned financial cooperatives play in the lives of people everywhere.

This statement of commitment to credit unions represents our dedication to the credit union principles of “Not For Profit, Not For Charity, But For Service” and our philosophy of “People Helping People.”

Section I. Service to Members

The North Dakota Credit Union League and the League Service Corporation have established partnerships and offer products and services to assist member credit unions in their efforts to better serve their members. The NDCUL and Affiliates will continue to look for ways to improve products and services, in the most cost effective way.

Current services provided to our member credit unions include:

Section II. Member Education

The North Dakota Credit Union League is committed to educating and training our member credit unions’ staff and volunteers. In addition, we are committed to educating the general public about credit union uniqueness, philosophy, and values.

Current programs that support member education and advocacy:

Ongoing education programs, conferences, and workshops

Scholarship programs available for credit union employees to attend programs, conferences, and workshops

Distribution of League publications (Credit Union Connection, Views for Volunteers, North Dakotans in the News, and briefings during the legislative session)

Onsite training for new employees & managers

Training for new products and services offered by the NDCUL & Affiliates

STAR/VAP/VLP/MERIT/ RegTraC/CEP certification programs

Development Education Program

Section III: Involvement/Governance

The North Dakota Credit Union League will strive to preserve credit union democratic principles. The League will provide a unified legislative voice on both the state and national levels for the North Dakota credit union movement. The League encourages bipartisan support of candidates and legislators who share the credit unions’ points of view.

Current programs that support Involvement/Governance:

Policy Development & Professional Staff Lobbyists

CUPAC Fundraising—The North Dakota Credit Union League’s Political Action Committee is a fund that utilizes personal contributions to provide bipartisan financial support to state legislators who support credit unions

Governmental Affairs Committee

League Board

League Committees

League Service Corporation Executive Committee
Budget and Finance Committee
Bylaws and Policies Committee
CUNA Mutual Owners Advisory Council Representative
CUPAC Trustees
Education Committee
Stabilization and Operational Assistance Task Force
Family Involvement Team
Governmental Affairs Committee
Marketing/Advertising Committee
PRODATA Users Advisory Committee
Technology Committee

Representation of the ND credit union movement on the national level by delegates who are elected by and from the League Board of Directors

League Governmental Affairs Conference/Legislative functions

Legislative Updates—provide member credit unions and the general public with information on what is happening on the legislative front—both in the state and on the national level

Volunteer training programs

Section IV. Diversity

The North Dakota Credit Union League recognizes the value of demographic diversity in staff as well as in volunteers, and will strive to bring people of diverse backgrounds and experiences into leadership and other roles within the credit union movement.

Equal Employment Opportunity—The NDCUL actively seeks to provide a favorable working environment for staff as an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Section V. Commitment to the Credit Union Movement and other Cooperative Activities

The North Dakota Credit Union League will work to build and strengthen our relationships with other cooperative activities. The North Dakota Credit Union League strengthens the movement by serving in leadership roles and by supporting the efforts of credit union-based organizations. The League actively encourages our members/staff to promote the credit union difference.

Current activities that support the Credit Union Movement and cooperatives:

North Dakota Coordinating Council for Cooperatives Board—NDCUL is a member of the board, which represents cooperatives from across the state.

North Dakota Coordinating Council for Cooperatives Communicators Committee—NDCUL representative works with other state cooperatives on informing the general public about the cooperative difference.

Partnerships with other states—NDCUL partners with other states to offer conferences. Credit unions that are members of Leagues in other states are eligible to attend education sessions offered by our League.

Promotion of International Credit Union Day—Credit unions are encouraged to promote this event with the marketing materials, tips, and ideas compiled by CUNA and the NDCUL.

Credit Union Brand Campaign—The NDCUL promotes the use of the Americas Credit Unions logo to its member credit unions and utilizes the materials in its own marketing efforts.

Recognition programs—Louise Herring, Dora Maxwell, Volunteer and Professional of the Year, Hall of Fame, Family Marketing Awards, Bridge Award, and the Desjardins Youth Financial Education Award (2002).

Section VI. Public Service/Corporate Citizenship

Through direct financial support or other in-kind contributions to worthwhile local organizations, and by participating in public service activities, the North Dakota Credit Union League strives to be an active partner in our community. We recognize that practicing good Corporate Citizenship supports the credit union philosophy of People Helping People and raises the overall level of social and economic well being of those in our communities and our state. Furthermore, it strengthens ties within the community and makes it possible for us to reach out and serve those in greatest need of affordable financial services.

Community/FOM Groups Currently Receiving Financial or Other In-Kind Support and Current Public Service Activities:

Oklahoma Credit Union League’s
Statement of Commitment to Members

As an organization, which exists solely to meet the needs and represent the interests of credit unions, the Oklahoma Credit Union League is committed to our member credit unions - to their staff, volunteers, and credit union members - and to the credit union system.

We will uphold our fundamental responsibility to serve member credit unions in our state, and treat all credit unions with respect and dignity.

We will work to protect the future of credit unions by communicating the credit union difference in our state and in our nation's Capitol. By doing so, credit union members and potential members, legislators, regulators and the community at large will understand and appreciate the unique role that member-owned financial cooperatives play in the lives of people everywhere.

We will deliver a range of products and services designed to meet the needs and reflect the diversity of our credit unions. We will support credit unions in their efforts to improve the financial well being of people.

We will look for new and better ways to support our smaller credit unions by promoting an environment in which they can thrive. We will actively promote the concept of reaching out to serve all segments of credit unions' diverse and wide ranging memberships. And just as credit unions continually, in all facets of operations, demonstrate the value of membership, so will the Oklahoma Credit Union League, continually and in all facets of operations, demonstrate the value of belonging to the League.

We will demonstrate our commitment to the Credit Union Movement by promoting collective efforts among our credit unions, by participating in national advocacy efforts, and by always working together with CUNA, AACUL, NCUA, and our state regulator to strengthen and build the credit union system.

We believe in the Credit Union Philosophy of "People Helping People". More importantly, we believe credit unions practice this Philosophy every day.

This statement of commitment to member credit unions is consistent with our primary mission: Providing cooperative services essential for the growth and stability of credit unions.

Section 1: Service to Members

The Oklahoma Credit Union League (OCUL) strives to offer services designed to improve the economic and social well being of all member credit unions. OCUL is determined to return financial value to all credit unions participating in our member-owned financial cooperatives.

Current Services that Help Improve the Economic and Social Well Being of Members:

1. Legislation and Regulation

• Lobbies on behalf of Oklahoma credit unions at both the state and federal level on issues ranging from tax status to field of membership.
• Directs grassroots activities
• Organizes the governmental affairs conference
• Distributes legislative and regulatory alerts and updates
• Administers the Oklahoma Credit Union Political Action Committee.
• Monitors all state and federal legislation affecting credit unions

2. Education

• Plans and directs more than 60 conferences and workshops annually
• Offers chapter and council support
• Works to consistently provide high value/low cost educational programs to benefit all credit unions and their members
• Provides resources for credit union staff/volunteers for personal and professional development

3. Compliance

• Provide member credit unions with regulatory and operational training and information
• Respond to calls requesting regulatory/operational information and/or interpretation
• Monitors federal and state regulations and proposals
• Assists member credit unions with operational policies, procedures and bylaws

4. Marketing/Public Relations

• Serves as the unified voice for the credit union movement
• Publishes newsletters to keep member credit unions informed of the latest industry news
• Administers the statewide advertising campaign for the Oklahoma CU Advocacy Task Force
• Works with trade and local press to keep them informed of industry issues
• Manages the OCUL website
• Provides marketing services to credit unions
• Coordinates CMN and youth education activities
• Supports and promotes other OCUL activities

5. Products and Services

• Manages Credit Union Service Center network for participating credit unions
• Provides technology products to improve communications
• Offers wide array of audit services to member credit unions
• Provides planning at both the board and staff level
• Offers customized training to member credit unions

New Services Planned for the Coming Year:

• Expansion of support for member credit unions including additional marketing services, website development, employment services and others.
• Expansion of business relationships to develop better E-Commerce delivery channels
• Develop additional business relationships to provide larger menu of products to member credit unions.

Section II: Member Education

The Oklahoma Credit Union League is committed to member and consumer financial education; in addition we are committed to educating members and consumers, alike, about credit union uniqueness, philosophy, and values.

Current Programs that Support Member Education and Advocacy:

• Oklahoma Credit Union Advocacy Task Force (statewide volunteer advertising and member education campaign)
• OCUL's ongoing education programs, workshops, and roundtables
• CFO, Technology and Lending Councils: Through councils, the League helps credit unions spread good ideas across the community by providing networking opportunities
• STAR/VAP/VLP/MERIT certification programs
• Conferences: Annual meeting, Spring Leadership, Marketing Conference, Lending Conference, Governmental Affairs Conference
• League support of chapter programs
• League support of Oklahoma Credit Union Foundation
• League support of NEFE Program
• League publications: Electronic newsletter, Legisletter, Regulatory Alerts, Management Update and Insights
• Onsite training/planning session facilitation
• New Programs Planned for the Coming Year:
• Development of online training and education
• Enhancement and development of councils

Section III: Involvement/Governance

The Oklahoma Credit Union League will endeavor to preserve credit union democratic principles, including demographic representation and volunteer participation in League activities.

Current Programs that Support Involvement/Governance:

• Annual meeting: Credit unions can directly address the board of directors on issues facing the League. Board election results are announced at the business meeting.
• Board of directors: Meets quarterly to discuss credit union issues and events and determine the direction of the League.
• Board Election: Every affiliated credit union has an equal number of votes toward the board of directors. No one credit union can disproportionately influence the outcome of the board composition.
• Chapters: Two chapters meet every month.
• Committees: Governmental Affairs, Marketing, CMN, Youth Education, Education, and others give input to and assist League staff.
• Strategic Planning: The board meets annually specifically for strategic planning, and staff meets at least once a month to ensure the strategic objectives are on track.
• Representation on National Committees: OCUL promotes staff involvement on national committees to gain knowledge and provide input for the betterment of the credit union system.

Section IV: Diversity

The Oklahoma Credit Union League recognizes the value of demographic diversity in staff as well as in volunteers, and will strive to bring people of diverse backgrounds and experiences into leadership and other roles at the credit union.

Current Programs that Promote Diversity:

• Diversity in Chapters through regional representation
• Diversity in Board through regional representation
• Promotion if the IRnet program to member credit unions

New Programs Planned for the Coming Year:

• Research and development for reaching Hispanic population

OCUL actively fosters a diverse organization by providing equal opportunities to all qualified individuals, without regard to race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, disability or other legally protected classification.

Section IV Advocacy/Legislative Action

The Oklahoma Credit Union League will continue to work as an activist in the financial service arena to ensure that Oklahoma’s consumers have access to credit unions. As a unified voice for credit unions, the League will communicate with legislators at the state and national levels to retain and enhance credit union political strength and protect their common interests.

Current Activities that Support Advocacy/Legislative Action:

• OCUPAC fundraising: Our PAC funds are utilized to support credit union friendly legislators.
• Fundraising functions: Multiple fundraising efforts are made throughout the year to raise money for CULAC and OCUPAC as well as individual candidates.
• Governmental Affairs Conference: OCUL hosts an annual GAC as well as organizing the Oklahoma delegation for CUNA’s GAC in Washington, DC.
• Legisletter: OCUL disseminates this weekly newsletter during the legislative session to provide member credit unions with legislative information.
• Governmental Affairs Committee: This committee is comprised of a diverse group of professionals and volunteers that provide the direction for each year’s legislative agenda.
• Call to Action: OCUL issues “Calls to Action” on legislative issues that need immediate attention.
• Credit Union Visits: OCUL coordinates legislator visits to credit unions in their district.
• Hike the Hill: OCUL organizes “Hike the Hill” visits at our state and nation’s capitol.
• Credit Union House: OCUL is an investor in CUNA’s Credit Union House.
• Lobbying: OCUL’s lobbying efforts work toward positive credit union legislation, combating negative legislation, and maintaining existing as well as new legislation.
• Outside lobbyist: A contract lobbyist is retained to maintain a constant presence at the state capitol and protect our legislative interests.

New Programs Planned for the Coming Year:

• 2003 legislative agenda
• 2003 legislative session tracking timeline
• Increase emphasis: CULAC and OCUPAC
• Candidate training
• Implementation of AACUL/CUNA “PLAN” among member credit unions

Section V: Commitment to the Credit Union Movement and other Cooperative Activities

The Oklahoma Credit Union League will work to build and strengthen our unique credit union movement by providing resources to others within the credit union community, and by actively advocating the credit union difference at all levels of government and in other appropriate public forums. In addition, the Oklahoma Credit Union League will participate in local, state and national cooperative activities as appropriate, and will strive to build and strengthen relationships with other sectors of the national cooperative movement.

Current Activities that Support the Credit Union Movement:

• Advocating CU difference with elected officials
• Chapter network and councils: Through these outlets, credit unions are kept in contact with each other and the League, and can address issues they find important.
• Oklahoma Credit Union Advocacy Task Force: Each year, with the help of funding from credit unions, OCUL implements a cooperative advertising campaign and places statewide advertisements to educate consumers about credit unions.
• National Brand: Through the cooperative ad campaign, OCUL utilizes the ads produced by CUNA to support the National Brand. In addition, OCUL promotes usage of the brand to member credit unions.
• Coordinates International Credit Union Day activities
• Promotes Project Differentiation to member credit unions
• Public relations efforts: Through contact with the media, and by informing them of credit union and OCUL activities, the League helps consumers and legislators create positive associations with credit unions.
• Awards Program for outstanding work by credit unions, professionals, volunteers and legislators
• Organization of Developing (small) Credit Union Task Force
• Credit Union Service Centers: OCUL manages 6 CUSC locations utilized by 21 participating credit unions.

New Programs Planned for the Coming Year:

• Implementation of OCUL Foundation

Section VI: Public Service / Corporate Citizenship

Through direct financial support or other in-kind contributions to worthwhile local organizations, and by participating in public service activities, the Oklahoma Credit Union League strives to be an active partner in our community. We recognize that practicing good Corporate Citizenship supports the Credit Union Philosophy of People Helping People; furthermore, it will help raise the overall level of social and economic well being of those in our community, help to strengthen ties within the community, and better position us to reach out and serve - as only credit unions can - those people in greatest need of affordable financial services.

Community/FOM Groups Currently Receiving Financial or Other In-Kind Support (including the support given) and Current Public Service Activities:

• Credit Unions for Kids: In 2000, the Oklahoma Credit Union League coordinated the collection of over $85,000 among member credit unions. In 2001, more than $100,000 will be collected and donated.
• Classroom Presentations: Training and supplies are available through the League and the Youth Education Committee
• League staff is actively involved and hold membership with the State Chamber, Tulsa Chamber, Women in Communications, Press Club, and other community groups.
• United Way: League staff regularly donates to the local United Way chapter.
• Provides assistance throughout year to various charitable organizations

New Public Service Activities Planned for the Coming Year:

• League staff support to Habitat for Humanity
• Increased membership in community organizations by OCUL staff
• Development of coordinated League charitable giving activities

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