ST. LOUIS — Building relationships with Generation Y is becominga priority for Electro Savings Credit Union.

The $83 million credit union considers those born between 1977and 1995 to be an important segment of their membership, said StanMoeckli, president/CEO. During their annual member appreciationdays, which are held the Thursday and Friday before the MemorialDay holiday in May, members are treated by the management team tohot dogs, ice cream, chips and soda. Gen Y employees at the creditunion were included in the planning session for this year'sappreciation event. Moeckli said they came up with some very timelyideas including having a shredding machine for those who wanted tosafely dispose of personal documents. In the end, the credit unionfilled eight large bags of shredded paper.

“We're concerned about reaching that market,” Moeckli said. “Ifyou can get [Gen Y'ers] early, the likelihood of having them asmembers for a long time is greater.”

Members of all ages look forward to the annual appreciationevent and word typically spreads “real fast” often through thecredit union's select employee groups, Moeckli said. In addition tofood and drink, raffles for free tickets to St. Louis Cardinalgames are held.

“I really enjoy talking to members. I can easily talk to 100members [during member appreciation day],” Moeckli said.

While members that have been with Electro Savings for some timelook forward to the event each year, Moeckli said newer members aregenerally surprised that the credit union is taking the time tohonor them.

“They're surprised when we tell them it's for them,” he said.“Everyone needs to be appreciated. If it wasn't for members, therewould be no credit unions.”

Just as important are employees. Each year, the week beforemember appreciation day, the management team will serve employeesbreakfast complete with eggs, bacon, sausage and potato casseroles.After all, “it's the staff that takes care of the members,” Moecklipointed out.

Looking ahead, Moeckli said the credit union is consideringadding more products and services tailored to Generation Y. Nodoubt those future member appreciation days might include a twisttailored just for them as well. –[email protected]