Credit Union in drive to recruit volunteers
The winner of the Ballina Credit Union quarterly car draw was Lauren Sweeney, from Swinford Road, Foxford, who is pictured receiving her cheque from David Dwane, Chairperson, Ballina Credit Union and Declan Rigney, Director, Ballina Credit Union. Picture: John O'Grady
The challenge in recruiting volunteers was highlighted at the recent annual general meeting of Ballina Credit Union.
Credit unions, which are financial co-operatives owned by members, are regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland in a similar manner to other financial institutions such as banks. Unlike other financial institutions, the board of directors in a credit union is made up of unpaid volunteers, those members who have the skills and knowledge to lead and manage it, and who are elected by their fellow members.
Regulatory changes over the last few years have made it more difficult to attract volunteers and Ballina Credit Union believes that this changing fitness and probity regime may be having an impact on its ability to recruit new board and committee members to the organisation, which has 18,000 members across North Mayo and West Sligo.
"However, being a board member, or sitting on one of the many important committees that form a key part of the governance infrastructure of a credit union, can be very rewarding," said David Dwane, chairperson of Ballina Credit Union. "The role offers the opportunity for volunteers to receive training, develop leadership skills and give something back to their community. All training is free and can, where applicable and when available, include courses up to NFQ Level 7.
"The credit union movement started with volunteers. When Ballina Credit Union was established in 1968, members volunteered their own time to set up and manage this not-for-profit financial institution within their community. Without the tireless work of its volunteers, Ballina Credit Union would not have been able to grow to where it is today, with assets now of over €110m," he said.
Last month, Ballina Credit Union announced that it has purchased the former Ulster Bank premises on Pearse Street, Ballina. This significant move will allow it to provide a base from which to offer a growing range of services and maintain the important face-to-face engagement with its members that other financial institutions lack.
Whether you are looking for a leadership role, want to gain experience and training, or would like to give something back to your community and meet like-minded people, then, whatever your age, Ballina Credit Union offers invaluable volunteering opportunities.
Contact Ballina Credit Union at 096-71066, email jacqueline@ballinacu.ie or visit www.ballinacu.ie.
