In this week’s New York Minute, we’re highlighting support from New York lawmakers for the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund. Then, explore a scholarship opportunity from America’s Credit Unions, see professional recognitions, and more. Get weekly industry updates straight to your inbox with the New York Minute!
New York Lawmakers Sign Community Development Financial Institutions Fund Letter
Last week, 105 Republican members of Congress signed a bicameral letter urging continued funding for the Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund. The letter, led by Senator Mike Crapo (R-ID) and Representative Young Kim (R-CA), emphasizes the essential role CDFIs play in driving economic opportunity and supporting underserved communities nationwide.
The Association extends its gratitude to Republican Representatives Claudia Tenney, Mike Lawler, Nicole Malliotakis, Andrew Garbarino, Nick Langworthy, and Elise Stefanik for their leadership and commitment to strengthening local communities. The letter highlights the success of programs like the New Markets Tax Credit and Capital Magnet Fund, which have created over one million jobs and expanded affordable housing opportunities across the country.
This broad show of support underscores the ongoing importance of CDFIs in fueling financial inclusion and community growth. Read the full letter below.
Announcing the 2026 GAC Scholarship Contest
America’s Credit Unions has officially launched the 2026 Small Credit Union Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC) Scholarship Contest, sponsored by TruStage! Credit unions with assets up to $250 million are invited to enter for a chance to win a full scholarship to GAC 2026, taking place March 1–5 in Washington, D.C.
Winners will receive complimentary registration, airfare, lodging, and incidentals to attend the credit union movement’s premier advocacy event. To enter, credit unions must participate in the Small Credit Union Committee’s Shared Resources Project by submitting a short write-up describing how collaboration or outsourcing helped their institution overcome a challenge, or how it could in the future.
The contest closes December 1, 2025, and winners will be announced December 15. Don’t miss this opportunity to represent your credit union in the nation’s capital!
Municipal Credit Union’s Toni-Ann Sforza Named to List of Rising Stars
Congratulations to Toni-Ann Sforza, Chief Operating Officer of Municipal Credit Union, on being named one of City & State New York’s 40 Under 40 Rising Stars! The annual list honors outstanding young professionals making a transformative impact in politics, advocacy, and business across the state.
Toni-Ann has built an impressive path in human resources and financial services, including various leadership roles. At MCU, she has helped modernize operations, streamline member services, and enhance the digital banking experience for more than 600,000 New Yorkers.
Deeply committed to community service, Toni-Ann also serves on the MCU Foundation board, advancing initiatives like its partnership with Ronald McDonald House. Her people-first philosophy reflects the true cooperative spirit of the credit union movement. See the full list of Rising Stars below.
Justin Merk of FourLeaf FCU Named to ’40 Under 40′
The New York credit union community is celebrating another rising leader! Justin Merk, of FourLeaf Federal Credit Union, has been recognized by Long Island Business News as one of this year’s 40 Under 40 honorees.
The award highlights professionals under 40 who demonstrate exceptional leadership, professional excellence, and dedication to their communities. Justin’s recognition underscores his strong commitment to advancing FourLeaf’s mission of member service and financial empowerment while fostering collaboration and innovation within the credit union industry.
Honorees were selected by a committee of past recipients and LIBN’s leadership team, making this distinction a testament to Merk’s impact both within and beyond his organization.
Congratulations to Justin and the entire FourLeaf FCU team for this well-deserved recognition! See the full list below.
First New York FCU Recognized as ‘Best Credit Union’ by The Daily Gazette
Congratulations to First New York Federal Credit Union for being named Best Credit Union by The Daily Gazette’s 2025 Best of the Best Awards, marking their fourth consecutive win!
This year, First New York earned top honors in six categories, a reflection of its unwavering dedication to excellence, innovation, and community impact. The recognition is particularly meaningful because it’s driven by member votes and highlights the deep trust and satisfaction First New York continues to inspire among those it serves.
First New York’s continued success showcases the strength of member-focused service and reinforces the vital role credit unions play in improving financial lives across New York.
Stay ahead of the curve by subscribing to receive credit union news and updates directly to your inbox.