In our latest New York Minute, see how credit unions stepped up to feed communities across the state! Then, see recent updates from credit union leaders, and mark your calendar for an upcoming webinar. All that and more in this week’s blog!
Broadview FCU Supports Hunger-Relief Organizations Across New York
Broadview Federal Credit Union made a powerful stand against hunger by donating $750,000 to food pantries and hunger-relief organizations across the Capital Region, Buffalo, Syracuse, and Binghamton. Announced during the recent federal government shutdown and temporary Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) reductions, the funding helps 55 organizations respond to surging demand for meals and emergency support.
This latest investment builds on more than $500,000 Broadview has already donated to hunger-fighting nonprofits this year. In total, Broadview, its employees, and members have contributed over $1.2 million to help feed neighbors in need, underscoring the credit union’s people-first commitment to strengthening communities.
Eric Hepkins of Cornerstone Community FCU Named ‘Leader of the Year’
Cornerstone Community FCU is celebrating a major leadership honor for its CEO, Eric Hepkins, who has been named “Leader of the Year” by Leadership Niagara. The award recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, make a lasting impact on the Niagara region, and embody Leadership Niagara’s core values of service, collaboration, and innovation—qualities Eric exemplifies every day.
Under his guidance, Cornerstone has cultivated a culture rooted in integrity, empathy, and community impact, motivating employees and strengthening relationships across Western New York. Founded in 1984 as the first program of its kind in New York State, Leadership Niagara has a proud legacy of developing civic-minded leaders.
Oswego County FCU Helps Feed the Community with Recent Contributions
Oswego County Federal Credit Union is stepping up for neighbors facing food insecurity, announcing a $36,000 emergency donation to support local hunger-relief efforts during recent SNAP benefit delays. The credit union’s swift response helped bridge a critical gap for families in need.
Oswego County FCU contributed to the following six organizations:
Erin’s Angels
Human Concerns
Mexico Food Pantry
Pulaski Community Cupboard
Catholic Charities of Fulton
Oswego County Opportunities
These nonprofits work daily to ensure no family goes hungry, and the credit union is honored to bolster their mission. Members and community residents are also encouraged to continue the effort by dropping off non-perishable food items at any Oswego County FCU office. Together, the credit union and its partners are proving that when hunger can’t wait, the community won’t either.
Upcoming Webinar: Register Today for InfoSight360’s Fraud Symposium
InfoSight360’s Fraud Symposium is back by popular demand, offering timely, no-cost training for affiliated member credit unions on today’s fast-evolving fraud landscape.
Event Details
Date: December 2, 2025
Time: 2:00 – 5:00 pm EST
Speakers:
Ken Otsuka, TruStage
Sue Landauer, Forensic Accounting Services Group, LLC
This virtual webinar will address recent fraud trends, including account takeovers, interactive teller machines (ITMs), ATM/ITM jackpotting, check fraud, business member check-kiting schemes, and business email compromise wire scams. Attendees will also hear from a certified fraud expert, who will share insights on emerging schemes and best practices for engaging and supporting impacted members.
Can’t attend live? The session will be recorded and available on InfoSight360’s Fraud channel. Don’t miss this opportunity to strengthen your credit union’s fraud defenses! Click below to learn more and save your spot.
The Road to a Stronger Credit Union Movement
A message from Scott Simpson, America’s Credit Unions’ new president/CEO
To the credit union movement:
I’m just getting started in my new role as President and CEO of America’s Credit Unions, and while I am not new to credit unions, I recognize that there is a lot for me to learn, and a lot of opportunities to strengthen our movement.
I took this job because I believe wholeheartedly in the credit union mission. We’ve got challenges ahead, but I also know we’ve got something special here. I’m excited about what’s possible when we work together.
For those who don’t know me, I have been part of the credit union movement for over two decades, most recently in the League System serving California’s Credit Unions, Nevada’s Credit Unions, and Utah’s Credit Unions. Before that, I worked for a U.S. Senator and led the Utah Republican Party. I grew up as a “political hack,” if you will, but the call to protect and empower credit unions is something I felt connected to the first time I experienced the unique power of cooperative finance. I was hooked.
Over the last 20 years, I’ve remained astounded by what you do for your members. Credit unions change lives. You help folks build a better future, one member at a time. You rise to a greater calling every single day.
That kind of impact doesn’t happen by accident. It takes the right political, legislative and regulatory environments that allow you to focus on your members, build strong relationships, and meet their needs. That’s where America’s Credit Unions and the League System come in. We’re here to be your voice in Washington, to help create an environment where credit unions can exist without barriers, and ultimately thrive.
We’ll be working closely with you, your league, and industry partners to tackle the tough issues and make sure your voice is heard loud and clear in Washington, D.C., and beyond.
I know the road ahead won’t always be smooth. There’ll be bumps, detours, maybe even a few potholes. But if we stay focused on where we’re headed—a stronger, more connected credit union movement—we’ll get there together.
In the coming months, I’d love to hear from you. Your membership is important to me and your feedback will help shape our unified voice and direction.
I look forward to working closely with you and can’t wait to see what we accomplish.
Warm regards,
Scott Simpson
President & CEO
America’s Credit Unions
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