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Before 'Auld Lang Syne' completely fades from the consciousness until next year and we get completely used to writing 2018, a quick look back on the year that was is in order. From all indications, 2017 saw near or at record engagement in Maine CU League initiatives and events, significant successes, new leaders, mergers, and a name change, as well.
In January, the 23rd Annual C-U Swish-Out Childhood Cancer Challenge, the longest, continuous-running, 3-on-3, charity basketball tournament in Maine, which was founded in 1994 by the League's own Jon Paradise, raised a record-setting $52,300, thanks to record sponsorship and participation including significant support from CUs.
In February, Jessica Buchanan, who was the subject of a dramatic rescue by U.S. Navy Seals after being kidnapped in Somalia while helping provide food and other relief services, helped the Maine CUs' Campaign for Ending Hunger announce its record-setting total for the 2016 Campaign. Buchanan, whose best-selling book has been optioned for a movie by Clint Eastwood, unveiled the check with the amount of $674,193.48, more than $50,000 higher than the previous record.
In February and March, politicial involvement took center stage with record attendance by Maine CUs at the CUNA Governmental Affairs Conference, and near-record participation at CU Day at the State House in Augusta.
In April, Todd Mason became the fourth, full-time President/CEO of the Maine Credit Union League, when he replaced John Murphy, who retired after nearly 45 years with the League and Synergent including 25 years as President. A special reception recognizing Murphy attracted hundreds, as he was honored for his lengthy service and commitment to Maine CUs.
In May, the Maine CU League's Annual Meeting and Convention attracted the highest attendance in decades, and the Maine CU League Convention Golf Tournament for Ending Hunger raised a new record at more than $80,000.
June saw plenty of legislative excitement highlighted with the passage of the League-drafted bill to Update the State CU Charter, culminating more than a year and a half of work. The strength of the grassroots of Maine CUs was also on display with this bill after the Governor vetoed it. In less than 24 hours, more than 2,000 calls and emails were sent by Maine CUs to legislators requesting the veto to be overriden. The vote was nearly unanimous in the House, and unanimous in the Senate. On the federal level, Maine CUs were part of a press conference with Congressman Poliquin regarding a bill that would reduce regulatory burden. The press conference strong positive media coverage, both in state and nationally.
In July, Maine CUs received lots of positive attention with regards to the willingness of many Maine CUs to offer assistance and special loans to state workers impacted by the state shutdown. Though the shutdown lasted only a few days, legislators, the media and state workers all noted the proactive response of credit unions.
In August, the final totals for participation in the Financial Fitness - Money Management Experience fairs during the 2016/17 school year were released, and a record-setting 7,617 students took part in one of the nearly 50 in-person and online fairs that took place. On August 1, the merger of Ocean Communities FCU with Northeast CU was completed.
The month of September marked the release of mid-year statistics for Maine's CUs, with assets, loans, shares and membership reaching all-time highs. In addition, the first-ever Maine CU League Financial Literacy Conference, which received high marks and solid attendance for a first-year event. Also, the League's Management Roundtable had its largest attendance ever, as CU leaders from across Maine gathered to discuss and learn about important issues, opportunities and challenges.
In October, the second-largest group ever descended on Washington, D.C., for the League's Hike the Hill trip. Meetings with all four members of Maine's Congressional Delegation reinforced the strong support and positive image of credit unions by the Delegation. It also helped to lead to Senator Collins' providing a key vote to repeal the CFPB's Arbitration Rule. The League was praised by CUNA and others for its leadership on this issue. Finally, October brought about a name change for one of Maine's largest CUs, as Rainbow FCU officially changed its name to Dirigo FCU, a change that Mark Samson, President/CEO, said "better reflects our future."
November brought the Maine CU League's Legislative Forum and featured the iconic Carl Bernstein as the Opening Speaker. Bernstein's appearance likely had a role in helping the Forum to achieve its highest attendance ever. There was also a second merger of the year that was completed when EMMC FCU merged with Acadia FCU.
Finally, December brought a significant presentation by the Maine CUs' Campaign for Ending Hunger to Maine food pantries with a contribution that helped to purchase 50,000 meals for the holidays.
What does 2018 hold for Maine's credit unions? Based on the level of success, involvement, and participation of 2017, continuing to build the momentum generated in the past year.
Happy New Year!