MADISON, Wis. – CUNA and VoiceGard have joined forces to help credit unions develop plans so they can stay in touch in the event of a disaster. CUNA formed the alliance to help credit unions strengthen the telecommunication components of their business continuity plans as recommended in guidelines developed by the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council. "The ability to stay connected to employees, members, and business associates in times of crisis is absolutely essential, but often lacking, in business continuity plans, which is why we sought out this partnership," said Wes Millar, CUNA senior vice president of strategic services. VoiceGard helps credit unions in developing, implementing, testing and managing a viable voice recovery plan. Should a loss of service occur, the company activates this plan and accepts, terminates and routes calls to users as specified, restoring service with minimal impact on business communications. "We are constantly upgrading equipment to enhance features and security providing optimum service to our customers," said Stephen C. Smith, VoiceGard vice president of operations and technology. For more information, visit strategicservices.cuna.org, or contact Julie Esser at (800) 356-9655, ext. 4213.