WASHINGTON -- Any members of the $51 million K V Federal Credit Union who are opposed to the credit union's proposed charter change and merger with a local bank may find assistance from the National Cooperative Business Association.

The NCBA, which considers itself "the lead national membership association representing cooperatives of all types and in all industries" stands ready to help any of KV's members who think they would be better served by KV continuing as a cooperative, according to Adam Schwartz, vice president for public affairs for NCBA.

Schwartz said the association is looking into KV's proposed conversion and merger and is aware that there are members who have expressed dissatisfaction with the idea. None of them have yet contacted the association, Schwartz said.

NCBA played a role with member information and communication in the controversy over a proposed conversion at Lafayette Federal Credit Union in 2006.