President's Blog

by Kerry Wahlen, President/CEO

Free Financial Planning Seminar

April 12, 2017

I visit with my doctor annually for a wellness checkup. I’m a believer that you can’t manage what you don’t measure, so I schedule regular assessments to determine how to adjust my diet and fitness routines for optimum health.

Likewise, I check in with my financial planner on a regular basis to review the strength of my investments and ensure I’m on track to meet my retirement goals. I encourage you to do the same!

A few weeks ago, I spoke with a recently retired couple who had questions about timing and utilization of Social Security benefits. I referred them to Tyler Holbrook, our Financial Advisor in our corporate branch. For 18 years, Tyler has helped members successfully create investment strategies and retirement income plans.

I invite you to take advantage of a Credit Union member benefit by attending a free seminar with our Financial Advisors on April 18th in Ogden or April 19th in Salt Lake City. This seminar will focus on Social Security as part of your financial planning. To reserve your seat, please contact Deborah Thackinh at 801-786-8011.

At the request of our members, Goldenwest has evolved into one-stop-shop for your financial needs including loans, savings, retirement planning and insurance. Bringing the pieces of your portfolio together in one location is not only convenient but can also improve your financial fitness.

Goldenwest has three full-time Financial Advisors to assist you. In addition to Tyler, we have Dan Larsen at our Layton branch, and Nate Murdock at the Healthcare Credit Union Murray branch. If our Financial Advisors’ offices aren’t close to your home or workplace, they will make arrangements to meet with you at any Goldenwest, USU Credit Union, or Healthcare Credit Union branch from Logan to St George.

I’m pleased to report our Financial Advisors were recognized nationally by CUNA Brokerage Services for the largest increase in premium year-over-year in a combined program. This award is an indication of our strong commitment to helping members with their investment and retirement planning strategies.

We are a few weeks away from the operating system merger between Goldenwest and Healthcare Credit Unions. Beginning May 1st, Healthcare Credit Union members will have full access to their accounts at all Goldenwest and USU Credit Union branches. Furthermore, Goldenwest and USU Credit Union members can begin accessing accounts and services at all Healthcare Credit Union locations. We are excited to bring this strategic merger to fruition, and graciously welcome all Healthcare Credit Union members to the Goldenwest family.

Congratulations to Lori Johns, our employee of the month. Lori is a 15-year Goldenwest veteran, serving as the manager of our Farr West branch. No one takes care of our members quite like Lori, and we’re fortunate to have her on our team.

I enjoyed meeting with many of you at Goldenwest Credit Union’s 81st Annual Meeting on April 11th in Ogden’s Union Station. The Annual Meeting is one of my favorite events of the year as it truly illustrates the Credit Union difference.

Thanks for contributing to our not-for-profit financial cooperative, and giving us the opportunity to serve you. I’m available to take your questions and comments via email at president@gwcu.org. Follow my Twitter feed at @goldenwestcuceo for Credit Union updates and my favorite quotes.

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