My Journey with Kingston Community Credit Union

Reflecting on my journey with the Kingston Community Credit Union (KCCU), I see that it's rooted in a blend of personal values and community ethos. In 2011, I returned to Kingston, eager to find work in my field of study: sustainability, climate action, and social justice. Like many, I grew up familiar with traditional banking, but the concept of credit unions was a revelation to me.

What drew me in were credit unions' democratic structure and local ownership by members. Unlike big banks, credit unions are anchored in community values, where decisions often feel distant and disconnected. Profits are reinvested locally, fostering a sense of accountability and trust.

As practiced by KCCU, cooperative banking is based on the seven cooperative principles: voluntary and open membership, democratic member control, member economic participation, autonomy and independence, education, training and information, cooperation among cooperatives, and concern for the community. These principles structure every aspect of KCCU's operations and guide interactions with members and the community.  This alignment with my values led me to become a member of KCCU over a decade ago.

Over time, my involvement has deepened as I've matured and gained diverse experiences, including running community projects and fostering partnerships across sectors. I saw an opportunity to give back by joining the Board of Directors. It's a chance to leverage my sustainability, community engagement, and partnership-building expertise while expanding my understanding of cooperative structures and the financial industry.

One critical aspect of KCCU that resonates strongly with me is its commitment to democratic decision-making and local involvement. In a world where these values are often brushed away, I see KCCU as a community-centric finance option. As a board member, I'm dedicated to upholding and promoting these values, ensuring that decisions remain rooted in the interests of our members and the broader community.

What truly sets KCCU apart from other institutions' emphasis on trust and local accountability. In an era of increasing corporate dominance, KCCU stands as a testament to the power of community-oriented banking. By fostering personal relationships and prioritizing local impact, we create a financial ecosystem that serves our members' needs while contributing to our community's well-being.

Looking forward, I see numerous opportunities for KCCU to deepen its engagement with the community and enhance its impact. From expanding financial literacy programs to offering tailored services for underserved demographics, there's immense potential to strengthen our connection with the people we serve. By leveraging my network and experience, I aim to create initiatives that align with our values and address the evolving needs of our community.

Inclusivity and diversity are foundational to KCCU's ethos. As a board member, I'm committed to ensuring everyone feels welcome and represented within our institution. By fostering a culture of openness and actively seeking diverse perspectives, we can enrich our decision-making processes and better serve our members' diverse needs.

Engaging the younger generation is another priority for me. By empowering youth to understand and participate in the credit union, we're not just securing our future but also fostering a sense of ownership in shaping it. Through educational initiatives or youth-focused outreach programs, we can inspire the next generation to participate actively in their financial future.

In conclusion, my journey with KCCU has been deeply rewarding. It's a testament to the power of community-driven finance and its impact on individuals and communities alike. As a board member, I'm excited to continue promoting our values, strengthening our ties with the community, and ensuring that KCCU remains a trusted partner for generations to come.