MADISON, Wis. — Though it may seem contradictory to the concept of "crashing," the application process to be included in "Crash the GAC 2014" opened Monday.
The Cooperative Trust and CUNA are looking for young credit union professionals who would like to have a positive effect on the future of the movement by learning the importance of advocacy. Those interested can submit applications at
The Cooperative Trust is a grassroots community of young people who work in credit unions and cooperatives. Founded by the Filene Research Institute and made possible by CUNA Mutual Group, the Trust says it connects and enables several hundred young people fighting for the future of socially responsible finance through meet-ups, mentorships and collective action.
In 2010, the Cooperative Trust put together a group that "crashed" CUNA's Government Affairs Conference. To mark the five-year anniversary of the original crash, the Cooperative Trust, CUNA, and the various state CU leagues and associations are joining forces in an attempt to get one crasher from each state and the District of Columbia represented at this year's GAC, which is scheduled Feb. 23-27 in Washington.
Every crasher will receive a full conference registration from CUNA. If the chosen crasher's credit union cannot cover all of his/her travel expenses, the state league may be able to provide some funding, according to the group.
"Crash the GAC is an opportunity to give young credit union professionals a real insight into the wider CU system and for them to engage and learn with likeminded young and experienced professionals alike," James Marshall, leader of the Cooperative Trust, said in a statement.
Applications are due by Dec. 17. Crashers are scheduled to be selected in early January.
