Connecting lawmakers to the real impact of credit unions

At a March 1 meeting on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., Dupaco’s AVP Consumer Lending, Jamin Foust shared a powerful member testimonial with U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst. The moment unfolded during the Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC), where credit unions from across the country gather to advocate on behalf of their members.

For Jamin, sharing a real member story offered something far more compelling than policy points alone.

“Stories help legislators connect with the true value credit unions provide,” he said.

The letter he chose—written by a long‑time member—captured the essence of Dupaco’s mission: People helping people.

The member’s relationship with Dupaco began many years ago when, as a 20‑year‑old struggling with poor credit, she received a small loan that became a turning point in her life.

“I’ve always wanted to share with the team how grateful I have been throughout the years, but it felt a little silly to be thanking a credit union for giving me a loan; I mean, that’s what credit unions do, right? I can’t remember how small the loan was, I don’t even think it was $1,000. But that ‘yes’ was the start of a new direction for me. It literally changed my life,” she wrote.

With support from Dupaco staff, including Jamin, she gradually rebuilt her financial footing.

Years later, when she and her husband were experiencing financial stress that overwhelmed the family, she once again turned to Dupaco—this time speaking with staff member Lindsay Houttaker, whose compassion and guidance helped them through an especially difficult season.

As Jamin read the letter aloud in Washington, the room responded with applause. Sen. Ernst was visibly moved. Many attendees later shared how deeply the story resonated with them.

The moment served as a powerful reminder of why the work credit unions do matters—and how meaningful real member experiences can be when shared on the national stage.

This meeting was one of several that Iowa credit union advocates held with federal lawmakers from the state to ensure credit unions can better serve and protect their members.