2026-1: Life Over Debt: How Credit Unions Are Choosing People Over Profit in the Fight Against Cancer

At the GAC 2026, 1934 Event, industry leaders, Jackie Taque, Chief Experience Officer from Edwards FCU and Joel Strowzeski, CEO of Holy Family Memorial CU, share powerful, real-world stories about the Life Over Debt program—a transformative initiative helping credit union members battling cancer by pausing loan payments and easing financial stress.The conversation explores how even small institutions can implement the program, the emotional and community impact it creates, and why the return on investment goes far beyond dollars. At its core, this episode highlights the true meaning of the credit union philosophy: people helping people. Three Key Takeaways1. Impact Over Income: ROI Is Measured in Lives, Not Just DollarsThe financial cost of the program is minimal—even for small credit unions—but the emotional and community return is massive. Loyalty, trust, and word-of-mouth growth far outweigh traditional ROI metrics.2. Small Credit Unions Can Drive Big ChangeYou don’t need massive assets to make a difference. Even a $19M credit union successfully implemented the program, proving that leadership and purpose matter more than size.3. Storytelling Is the Missing LinkCredit unions often fail to promote the incredible work they do. Sharing these stories—through podcasts, community events, and member conversations—is essential to expanding impact and awareness.Shine a light where it matters.