Photo L to R: Jay Kruse, Service First Controller, Tara Timmerman, Service First Branch Manager, and Robbie Thompson, CUAD President/CEO.

Tara Timmerman first learned about CULAC/CUPAC payroll deduction at a staff meeting presentation hosted by Jeff Olson, CUAD’s VP of Advocacy and Awareness. After listening to Jeff’s speech about how each dollar helps, Tara, then a Teller Supervisor at Service First FCU, decided to opt in to the payroll deduction option.

“The CULAC/CUPAC presentation explained exactly how our dollars are used, which I feel is very important” says Timmerman. “The dollars I donate each week out of my paycheck is the least I can do to support credit unions. I donate $3.00 each week totaling $156.00 a year. Each year I continue to increase my contributions because I feel the money I donate is being used for a great cause. I choose to donate at a higher level because I am so passionate about the credit union movement and what it stands for. I live by my credit union’s philosophy which is ‘People helping people’ - that’s exactly what credit unions do. My dollars can help support the Association and having our voice heard in congress.” Just recently, Tara was promoted to Branch Manager. 

CUAD’s President/CEO Robbie Thompson says “It is encouraging to see relative newcomers to the credit union movement be inspired to contribute at such a level. Our future direction is strongly influenced by decisions made in Washington every day, and we cannot under estimate the importance of getting the credit union message to our legislators”.

With so many abbreviations and acronyms, the whole CUPAC/CULAC can be confusing, especially for entry level and new employees who have not been as exposed to the “bigger” credit union picture.

CUPAC is the “State” political action account for the Association. Both North and South Dakota have CUPAC accounts. The monies in the CUPAC fund are used to support candidates running for office in North or South Dakota.  

CULAC is the “Federal” action council for the Credit Union National Association (CUNA). Funds contributed to CULAC are used to support pro-credit union candidates who are seeking a federal elected position.

CUPAC/CULAC contributions help your Association and CUNA to ensure that legislators understand the difference between credit unions and other types of financial institutions by advocating for pro-credit union legislation. 

Payroll deduction is our main vehicle in sustaining support for our PAC funds, and your Association would like to encourage ALL credit union employees to consider making a contribution. While any amount is greatly appreciated, CUAD recommends that you consider the following when making your donation choice: 

 Employees and Staff should consider contributing at CU Advocacy level, which covers contributions of up to $99 annually. 

Volunteers Supervisors, VPs, Branch Managers should consider contributing at the Capital Club level, and covers contributions ranging from $100 to $299 annually. 

CEOs/Managers should consider contributing at Leadership PAC Club level, which covers contributions of $300 or more annually.