Why Credit Unions Run on Volunteers & How You Can Get Involved
- Options Credit Union
- Oct 21
- 2 min read
If you’ve ever wondered what makes a credit union different from a bank, here’s the heart of it: member ownership and volunteer leadership. Credit unions are not-for-profit financial cooperatives. That cooperative DNA shows up in how we’re governed—by everyday members who step up to serve on our Board of Directors and Supervisory Committee.
Bottom line: Credit Unions are designed for members to lead. Your voice doesn’t just matter—it’s built into the structure.
What You’ll Do (and Learn) as a Volunteer
Board of Directors (Strategy & Stewardship)
Set vision, policies, and risk appetite; hire/oversee the CEO; approve budgets and strategic plans.
Represent the membership—ensuring products, pricing, and service reflect local needs.
Develop leadership skills in finance, strategy, and governance that transfer to any career.
Supervisory Committee (Audit & Accountability)
Verify financial reporting objectives are met and that controls protect members’ money.
Oversee or arrange the required annual audit.
Serve as members’ independent channel for concerns about accuracy or integrity.
Why Serve as a Volunteer?
Impact You Can See: Volunteer decisions shape local lending, savings options, and community partnerships. You’re not a spectator—you drive outcomes in your own backyard.
Professional Growth: Boardrooms are crash courses in finance, risk, regulation, and strategy. You’ll learn how budgets, audits, and ALM decisions affect real people.
Member-First Mission: Because credit unions answer to members (not outside shareholders), decisions center on service value, prudent risk, and long-term community benefit.
Give Back—Tangibly: Volunteer governance is how cooperative finance stays safe, fair, and local. Your time keeps costs lower and value higher for neighbors and small businesses alike.
“Do I Qualify To Be A Volunteer?”
You’re a member in good standing.
You can commit time for regular meetings, preparation, and training.
You’re ready to uphold fiduciary duties (care, loyalty, and obedience to bylaws and regulations).
Prior board or audit experience helps but isn’t required; we provide orientation and ongoing education for volunteers.
Serve where your voice counts. If you believe in local control, financial fairness, and practical community impact, volunteering with your credit union is one of the most meaningful ways to contribute.
Tell us you’re interested. We’ll share current openings, time commitments, and next steps.
Complete onboarding. We’ll guide you through eligibility, training, and calendar planning.
Start making a difference. Join meetings, ask questions, and bring your perspective as a member.
