GoWest Credit Union Association

06/03/2026

What an incredible few days at the YP Summit!

From learning how every role impacts the bottom line to exploring what it means to lead from where you are, this experience was packed with insights, inspiration, and meaningful conversations. We discussed the power of authentic networking, how credit unions can better communicate our difference, and how we can move from being individual organizations to a collective movement that creates lasting impact.

One of the biggest takeaways? The opportunity to connect with fellow young professionals and executives from credit unions across the region. Those conversations, perspectives, and relationships are what make events like this so valuable.

We also had the chance to meaningfully understand the impact of CU4Kids in action and be reminded that the work we do every day extends far beyond our own organizations.

The YP Summit is more than a conference—it’s an opportunity to grow as a leader, expand your network, and gain a deeper understanding of the credit union movement. These past few days have been filled with lessons and connections that we’ll carry long after returning home.

06/02/2026

We’re off to a great start at the 2026 YP Summit! 🚀

This morning we heard from Lindsey Myhre, CEO of STCU and Chris Jentges, CEO of Avista Corp. Credit Union during a session on How Your Role Impacts the Bottom Line.

One of the biggest takeaways? Every role matters.

Whether you’re serving members on the front line, supporting operations behind the scenes, or leading strategic initiatives, your work contributes directly to your credit union’s success. We explored what drives growth, supports financial stability, and how everyday decisions influence the bigger picture.

The session also broke down key financial concepts—including earnings, net worth, and growth—in a way that connected them to the work we do every day. Understanding the “why” behind the numbers helps all of us see how we contribute to our organization’s mission and long-term success.

It was inspiring to see attendees fully engaged—taking notes, sharing perspectives, and asking thoughtful questions. The energy in the room has been incredible, and we’re just getting started!

06/02/2026

Hi, I’m Jorge!

I am on my 2nd year as a GoWest YP, this time taking part of the Social Media Takeover as well for 2026’s YP Summit in Spokane, Washington!

My credit union journey began in 2024 joining Westmark Credit Union as a Relationship Development Officer. In my role, I strengthen community connections by building strategic partnerships, delivering financial education, and identifying opportunities that promote financial well-being.

I absolutely love what our movement is all about and I am so thankful I have the opportunity to be part of it through both GoWest and Westmark! People, community, relationships and all that come with it are what drive me to be better every day!

I look forward to sharing my time with you for these next two days!

06/02/2026

Hey—I’m Taylar! 👋🏼

I decided to and head to Spokane, Washington for the YP Summit, and I’m excited to be here taking part in the YP Social Media Takeover!

My credit union journey began as a kid eager to save money, opening my first share account at [then] Warren Federal Credit Union. Fast forward to 2021, when [now] Blue Federal Credit Union opened its state-of-the-art World Headquarters. I knew it was where I wanted to be.

I spent four years working toward that goal, and now, 10 months into my role as Executive Assistant to an incredible CEO and Executive Leadership Team, I couldn’t be more proud to wear the Blue name.

There’s something special about credit unions and the people behind them. It’s care. It’s community. It’s connection. It’s a movement that’s bigger than any one of us, and one that continues to make a difference in the lives of our members every day.

I can’t wait to share this experience with you over the next few days!

🔷 If you were attending the YP Summit, what would you want to know? Drop your questions in the comments, and I’ll do my best to get answers while I’m here! 🔷

06/02/2026

The YPs have arrived in Spokane for and are taking over GoWest's social media today and tomorrow! Follow along as Taylar Carter from Blue Federal Credit Union and Jorge Santacruz from Westmark Credit Union give us an insider's look at all the fun and learning!

05/29/2026

In times of crisis, credit unions lead with care. 💙

The Nippon Dynawave implosion has deeply impacted the Longview, Wash., community, and many members are facing uncertainty. Local credit unions, including Fibre Federal Credit Union, Lower Columbia Longshoremen's Federal Credit Union, Mint Valley Federal Credit Union, PUD Federal Credit Union, and Red Canoe Credit Union are coming together in support of their community. A fund has been established for affected families by local unions through an account at Lower Columbia Longshoremen's FCU, and donations can be made in person or mailed to LCLFCU at 629 14th Ave., Longview WA 98632, made payable to Cowlitz Wahkiakum Central Labor Council or CWCLC.

GoWest stands alongside our member credit unions and is grateful for these local credit unions as they come together to support their community.

Red Canoe and Fibre Federal Credit Union will be joining Lower Columbia Longshoremen's Federal Credit Union, Mint Valley Federal Credit Union, and PUD Federal Credit Union in donating to support AWPPW's efforts in helping those impacted by the recent Nippon Plant Implosion.

Donations can be made at any area branch.

We are keeping you all in our thoughts during this time. ❤️

05/29/2026

💥 starts on Monday, and young credit union professionals from across the region are packing their bags for Spokane! Next week, YPs Taylar Carter from Blue Federal Credit Union and Jorge Santacruz from Westmark Credit Union Westmark Credit Union will be taking over GoWest's social media accounts to give us an inside look at all the fun, learning, and networking happening at YP Summit!

🫵 Join us and follow Taylar and Jorge's YP Summit adventures next week!

05/29/2026

📣 Big news! At MAXX 2026, leadership expert and author of Radical Candor, Kim Scott, is taking the mainstage to share how leaders can create more open, honest, and effective workplace cultures.

💡 You’ll learn how to recognize when team members are in “RockStar” mode or ready to grow into “SuperStar” mode—and how to support both with meaningful feedback and conversations.

If talent development, engagement, and team culture are top priorities for your credit union, this is a session you won’t want to miss.

Join us this October at MAXX! https://gowestassociation.org/event/maxx-2026/

05/28/2026

🚗When credit unions come together, careers move forward! Nineteen Colorado credit unions have open positions and are stepping up to support professionals impacted by the PNC/FirstBank layoffs.

If you’re navigating your next step — or know someone who is — the Job Resource Center can help connect you to your next opportunity.

Join the Movement! https://gowestassociation.org/job-manager/supporting-colorado-financial-services-workers/



https://www.denver7.com/money/consumer/credit-union-group-launches-new-job-tool-as-pnc-bank-layoffs-hit-colorado

More than 700 Colorado workers could lose their jobs after PNC Bank's merger with FirstBank. A credit union group has launched a new tool to help those impacted find work.

05/22/2026

💫 It was a busy week for credit union communities across the region. From volunteer events to engaging conversations, credit unions pros came together to make a difference in their communities! Talk about the Credit Union Difference!

⭐ Colorado Young Credit Union Professionals (CYCUP)
At Fort Collins Food Share, volunteers from Canvas Credit Union, Ent Credit Union and GoWest partnered to help ensure their neighbors have access to nutritious food.

Volunteers from Colorado Credit Union, Arapahoe Credit Union, Ent Credit Union, and Denver Fire Department Federal Credit Union came together at Food Bank of the Rockies to support an incredible mission and make a meaningful impact in our community. They helped sort 76 pallets, totaling 40,774 pounds of food — providing 33,978 meals to those in need.

⭐ YCUP PDX & Portland/Vancouver GWLN Sister Society
Credit union professionals from across the metro area convened for the annual Women of Impact event. Erin Moore (she/her) from OnPoint Community Credit Union, Heather Friend from Columbia Credit Union, Megan Snyder of Unitus Community Credit Union, and Neah (Jackson) LaFuente form Rivermark Community Credit Union were panelists for conversations centered around self-advocacy, finding your voice, and having the confidence to put yourself out there while also creating opportunities for others to thrive alongside you.

⭐ Spokane Chapter of Credit Unions
At Second Harvest, 22 volunteers from credit unions across the Spokane Valley, including State Sen. Leonard Christian and State Rep. Joe Schmick who joined the team, packed 1600 lbs of rice that will feed 800 families.

💡 Learn more about how you can get involved in your area! https://gowestassociation.org/communities/