This week, the New York Minute is filled to the brim with exciting news from the credit union industry! From visits with a state senator to fundraising efforts to fight hunger to regional recognitions and more, we’re bringing you the latest news from across the state.
Credit Unions Statewide Host Visits With Senator James Sanders, Jr.
In a strong show of support for the credit union movement and the communities they serve, New York State Senator James Sanders, Jr. (D-10), Chair of the Senate Committee on Banks, recently completed a series of visits to credit unions across the state. These visits provided an invaluable opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue about improving the financial well-being of New Yorkers.
Senator Sanders met with leadership teams and staff at each stop, discussing the unique challenges and opportunities facing credit union members and their communities. Topics included expanding access to affordable financial services, promoting financial literacy, and advocating for legislative policies that empower local economies and support underserved populations.
These positive conversations underscored the critical role credit unions play in fostering economic resilience and inclusion throughout the state. The Senator expressed appreciation for the work being done at the grassroots level and reaffirmed his commitment to championing the credit union mission in Albany.
A special thank you to the following credit unions for warmly hosting Senator Sanders and contributing to these productive exchanges: First Source FCU in New Hartford, Sidney FCU in Cicero, ESL FCU in Rochester, and Western New York FCU in West Seneca.
Broadview FCU & WTEN-TV Raise $200K to Fight Hunger
Broadview Federal Credit Union and WTEN-TV have once again united for a powerful cause—raising $200,000 for Capital Region food pantries. This successful campaign brought together key community partners, including BBL, CDPHP, CDTA, DeCrescente Distributing, National Grid, the Tri-City ValleyCats, Nigro Properties, Tri-City Rentals, and the Times Union Media Group.
The funds raised will provide vital support to local food pantries, ensuring no neighbor in the Capital Region goes hungry. Broadview’s community-first commitment continues to make a lasting impact, and this initiative is a testament to the strength of partnership and purpose.
Mid-Hudson Valley FCU voted “Best Credit Union” for 5th Consecutive Year
Mid-Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union (MHV) has once again claimed the title of “Best Credit Union” in the Chronogrammies Reader’s Choice Awards—for the fifth year running!
This annual recognition from Chronogram celebrates standout local businesses across the Hudson Valley. With more than 350,000 votes cast across 278 categories, MHV’s consistent win highlights the strong trust and loyalty built with members and communities.
Congratulations to the entire MHV team for their continued excellence and outstanding service.
Inclusiv Launches “Business Forward” Lending Program
Inclusiv has unveiled Business Forward, a major initiative to expand access to capital for small businesses across New York State. Backed by a $5 million investment from Empire State Development through the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI), the program enables loans from $50,000 to $500,000 via CDFI credit unions.
This effort will directly benefit underserved entrepreneurs by connecting them with affordable capital and technical support. Inclusiv is partnering with Member Business Financial Services (MBFS) to streamline the lending process and aims to purchase more than $15 million in small business loans from CDFI credit unions—freeing up capacity for even more impact.
This initiative is part of Inclusiv’s broader Small Business Capital Initiative and reflects a scalable model for national replication.
Register Now: Free BSA Training Webinar
Need to complete your annual Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) training? The Association is offering a complimentary webinar that satisfies the federal requirement for credit union employees.
This session will cover:
- BSA & OFAC compliance basics
- Red flags for suspicious activity
- Required policies and reporting procedures
Whether you’re in compliance, operations, or member services, this training is essential to staying up to date and fulfilling regulatory expectations.
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