THRIVE 2026 Helps Financial Counselors Do More for Members

The MD|DC Credit Union Association recently hosted THRIVE 2026, its annual Financial Counselors Summit. This year's theme, "Strengthening Financial Well-Being Through Insight, Empathy, and Impact," focused on financial counseling as an ongoing relationship built on trust, understanding, and personalized support.

Sessions covered key areas affecting members, including how economic conditions are shaping members' financial decisions, ways to support members facing financial stress, and how to guide individuals through estate planning and organizing their financial information.

"THRIVE 2026 reinforced the vital role financial counselors play in helping members achieve financial stability and resilience," said John Bratsakis, President/CEO, MD|DC Credit Union Association. "By focusing on personal connections and practical support, credit unions continue to differentiate themselves as trusted financial partners in their communities."

A panel discussion highlighted how financial counseling is a direct reflection of the credit union philosophy of people helping people. Panelists shared that trust is often the strongest return on investment, and that individualized support helps strengthen both member outcomes and credit unions overall. "We strengthen credit unions one member at a time," said David Woodruff, President/CEO of APG Federal Credit Union.

More than 45 financial counselors attended THRIVE, collaborating through problem-solving activities and sharing strategies that have been successful at their credit unions.

Financial counselors meet quarterly for roundtable discussions and education sessions. If you would like to join or learn more, please contact Chrystal Hunter, Manager of Training & Events at [email protected]