EKC holds 70th AGM on Zoom

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Posted: July 2, 2020

East Kootenay Community Credit Union (EKC) held its 70th annual general meeting (AGM) on June 24.

Jean-Ann Debreceni, Board Chair, welcomed over 50 people. Instead of standing in front of a group of people, she sat by herself with her computer. The 70th AGM was held by Zoom.

All board members signed in from their own space. Jose Galdamez welcomed back acclaimed board members, Don Holt, Diane Byford, Russell Pask and Stephen Fairbairn.

Alisdair Smith, the meeting host, welcomed attendees as they signed in and helped everyone to become more comfortable with technology. Plus, members could let everyone know their names and where they were from.

EKC’s AGM went off without a technical glitch; however, the dress rehearsal was critical to iron out the details. The switch to technology presented new opportunities and challenges. A virtual AGM is accessible, especially in the circumstances like a pandemic, it comes with some downfalls.

CEO Jody Burk explained, “I appreciate everyone signing in, but I really miss the time after the meeting to have casual conversations with our members. It doesn’t give the same feel.”

EKC has rotated the communities where the AGM has been held in the past. Elkford members may not have attended if the meeting was in Cranbrook. Technology supported members from all of our communities to attend easily.

EKC’s AGM format was matched as much as possible to live meetings; however, EKC was unable to continue its Community Cash program.

Community groups in the past had attended and were able to provide awareness of the great things the community groups offer, and attendees could vote with EKC cash. The program had given back over $30,000 since 2016. The cancellation did open the door to look at opportunities to give back to the communities EKC serves as it celebrates its 70th year.

The board was thanked for its time and commitment. As an elected group of local individuals, the board is made up of members who generously give their time and energy to steer the present and help unfold the future.

The meeting finished up with Kathleen Simon (pictured above), a long-time Cranbrook member, tell us her story. We encourage you to watch and share her story.