As we enter 2022 and our 60th anniversary, there is a lot to look back on and to look forward to. I must first thank our incredible staff for all they have done to take care of our members over the last few years. Given so many unknowns, we find ourselves stronger financially and more capable to handle the needs of our members. Our new online and digital banking platform was key to making sure
members have the best experience from home or anywhere they may be. This new and improved digital technology has set us up to provide current and future members with banking tools on par with some of the largest and most well-known financial institutions in the country.
Member service was a certainly a challenge as we navigated working remotely for many support staff, but our frontline really took the brunt of the challenge. Although due to staffing shortages, some branches had to close from time to time, our main branch remained open the entire time, even doing transactions through a window, curbside and by appointments. I can’t thank our frontline, member support and ITM staff enough for keeping HRCU open for members. This spring, we are now welcoming back members and staff in-person and are excited to do so. Thank you, our members, your patience and understanding were never overlooked and much appreciated.
Our senior management staff, Board of Directors and Supervisory Committee are the overseers of HRCU, and they all stepped up and prioritized keeping our staff and members safe. There were weekend and after-hours calls to navigate certain situations. It was great teamwork and made us stronger.
Financially, HRCU exceeded expectations in 2021. On our 60th anniversary, I think back to the beginning when Holy Rosary Credit Union was just an idea of Monsignor Gilles Simard and a few parishioners. Together, they each put in $50 to start HRCU. Now 60 years later, we finished 2021 having eclipsed $400 million in assets with over 22,000 members and a capital position setting us up for future growth.
Looking ahead, we see many opportunities, and, of course, the challenges will be there. The pandemic is still out there, and we are very mindful of it. However, it is time to move on and we will be smart about how we do it, especially considering all we have learned. We intend to continue our growth and to do it wisely. It is not about the numbers at HRCU; it is about our members. It is about giving each member a quality experience. It is about Better, Not Bigger Banking. It is developing a business plan with the member first. And never losing sight of opportunities to strengthen our credit union for future generations.
Today, issues faced by our economy, our nation and the world are challenging to say the least. We will stand ready to help our members. Making a difference in our community is what HRCU is about.
Thank you for being an HRCU member. My promise to you is that we will continue to work hard on your behalf each day to build on the success of your
credit union. I see us now, Better Than Ever!
Brian Hughes
President & CEO
