“I never thought two weeks spent in such a beautiful country would be the best two weeks of my career.”

Mary Vasquez, Member Service Representative at Point West and credit union advocate for the past six years, went on an amazing adventure in January 2013. She was honored to be selected as one of 11 participants to travel to the Dominican Republic with the International Credit Union Leadership Program.

Mary spent two weeks immersed in the culture with the Cooperativa CoopUnion in Salcedo. The staff there opened their homes and hearts to Mary – “I felt like part of the family.” When asked what lesson will stick with her from this experience Mary said, “The most valuable lesson I learned is to always serve the under-served and to never give up.”

“I was very touched by how this small Cooperativa was so dedicated to helping their community… [they] have demonstrated what credit unions are all about, ‘people helping people.’”

Learn more about the program Mary participated in.

Congratulations to Mary on being selected for this program and for sharing her experience with the family back home!