This year I am very pleased to lead a delegation that will include volunteers from across Washington state. Our goal is to meet with our legislators to enlist their support in representing the needs of the credit union movement. In all, 20% of Washington state's delegation will be credit union volunteers. Now more than ever we need to raise awareness and support in defense of our business model, as credit unions continue to be scrutinized for their tax-exempt status. Through the support of our volunteers, we can help educate those in Washington D.C. about our not-for-profit financial cooperative structure, emphasizing the difference between member-owners and stockholders. During this tense time, having volunteers as part of our delegation demonstrates the difference between credit unions and other financial institutions visiting the hill. One legislator commented to me during a recent visit, that it is refreshing to see the faces of the volunteers who are committed to representing membership regulatory needs, as opposed to the "suits" and paid lobbyists that call on behalf of other financial institutions. I would like to encourage you to enlist your volunteers in becoming a participant in the most impactful voice the legislator hears. Whether seen in Washington D.C. or heard through a local representative, the voice of the volunteers can be delivered in many different ways. Our collective success depends on you. Susan Streifel President/CEO Woodstone Credit Union Federal Way, Wash.