DURHAM, N.C. – Rodney Hood, vice chairman of the NCUA Board, praised credit unions' efforts to help their members begin to own their own homes when he spoke before the annual conference of the National Federation of Community Development Credit Unions. "From the very beginning, America's small and community development credit unions have been embracing the cause of economic development and homeownership by serving low-income, urban, and rural communities," said Hood. "The Federation is helping strengthen these credit unions so they can help their members achieve the American dream." Hood discussed President Bush's proclamation of June as National Homeownership Month and praised credit unions for their contribution in helping Americans achieve the dream of homeownership. "Today, because of President Bush's leadership, homeownership is at an all-time high across America. I strongly believe that America's credit unions are on the forefront of this success," said Hood. "I commend small credit unions for the great work they are doing and the innovative lending products they are offering to make homeownership a reality to people of modest means."