Dakota CU News & Notes

Beware of CDFI impersonator fraud; career opportunities at Dakota West and Hometown CU; upcoming SalesCU training; chapter events; and more! 

Beware of Fraud with CDFI Impersonators
The CDFI Fund is cautioning financial institutions and consumers to be aware of fraudulent social media profiles, email accounts, and phone numbers that attempt to impersonate or otherwise associate themselves with the CDFI Fund. Although the platforms and messages vary, these imposters provide false CDFI Fund employee and contact information, false links to a website alleged to be the CDFI Fund website, and a false telephone number. One social media profile scam identifies a nonexistent grant program, tells the public that it can receive free federal government grant money, and even displays a fictitious monetary disbursement. Be cautious when clicking on links attributed to the CDFI Fund.
 
The correct CDFI Fund website is https://www.cdfifund.gov/.  The CDFI Fund has three official social media profiles: on the X platform; Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube. The main number to the CDFI Fund is (202) 653-0300. Other official phone numbers for the CDFI Fund can be found on the website.
 
Summit Registration Now Open
Registration for the Annual Summit is now open! This year’s event takes us to Grand Casino & Golf Resort just outside Sioux Falls, SD. Be sure to check out the expanded three-day agenda and new attractions! Register by April 12 for early bird pricing of just $409 per person. For your convenience, a block of rooms is reserved at Grand Casino & Golf Resort under Dakota Credit Union Summit. You must call the hotel directly at 712.777.7777 to receive the special group rate starting at just $124.95 per night.
 
Dakota West CU Seeking Systems & Technology Administrator 
Dakota West Credit Union, based in Western North Dakota, is actively seeking a Systems & Technology Administrator to enhance and potentially lead our technological efforts. The role offers an exciting career path, with a clear opportunity to ascend into a managerial position as the current I.T. manager approaches retirement. As a pivotal member of the Dakota West team, you will be responsible for maintaining and optimizing technology infrastructure, ensuring the stability and security of systems across eight branches.
 
The ideal candidate will possess an associate or bachelor’s degree in computer science, or an equivalent combination of education coupled with proven experience in system administration. This role will primarily work from the Watford City office. Another crucial aspect involves the flexibility to occasionally travel within Western North Dakota to support 8 branches, making adaptability and strong communication skills essential. As the impending retirement of the current I.T. manager creates a strategic opportunity for advancement, the Systems & Technology Administrator will play a vital role in shaping the future of Dakota West Credit Union’s technology landscape. If you are ready to contribute to a forward-thinking organization and embark on a career trajectory towards I.T. department management, please apply! Complete job description and application can be found here. 

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Career Opportunities at Hometown Credit Union 
Hometown Credit Union currently has several career opportunities available! For consideration, please send cover letter and resume to: Hometown CU; ATTN Human Resources; PO Box 230; Ashley, ND 58413 or email to [email protected].
 
An Internal Auditor position is available at the Ashley, ND branch. A thorough knowledge of auditing standards and procedures, laws, rules and regulations with sound judgement is required.  
 
A Senior Loan Officer is sought for the Kulm location. The chosen person will be member-focused and energetic with strong communications skills and solid decision-making abilities. Experience with agriculture, finance, or accounting and lending is preferred.
 
A Loan Processor is sought for the Kulm location. This individual will be responsible for reviewing loan applications, processing loans, and loan documentation. Attention to detail is a must. Salary negotiable based on experience.
 
A Member Service Representative is needed at the Kulm location. A courteous, efficient, and confidential manner is required for handling member transactions. Ability to use a computer and cash handling skills required.

Overdraft Overhaul: Insights into CFPB’s Proposal
On Jan 17, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) published its proposed Rule, Overdraft Lending: Very Large Financial Institutions. While the proposed rule currently exempts financial institutions under $10B in assets, it may potentially reshape overdraft practices for all community banks and credit unions. The CFPB has indicated that it will monitor the market response for all overdraft programs and is prepared to include community financial institutions. Join ADVANTAGE for an in-depth discussion on the proposed rule and how it may impact your financial institution on Wednesday, February 21, at 2:00 p.m. (CT). Register here. ADVANTAGE is a CSS provider; please contact George McDonald with any questions.

Red River Chapter Fargo Force Night
The Red River Chapter of Credit Unions has planned a night with the Fargo Force on Thursday, March 7th at Scheels Arena. Join your peers and bring your family for a fun night – puck drops at 7:05. Your $20 ticket includes admission and all you can eat wrist band. Kindly RSVP to [email protected] by February 28.
 
SalesCU Training
2024 dates are available for SalesCU workshops; the next session begins March 12 with deadline to register March 1. SalesCU training offers practical and proven sales techniques and strategies that actually work in a credit union setting to bring affordable and convenient sales training to our Dakota credit unions. If you want to develop employees who know how to sell in a way that adds value to the member, and sales leaders who are empowered to drive results through developmental coaching and meaningful accountability, we have an award-winning solution for you! Additional information on upcoming sessions available here or contact George McDonald, Chief Officer of Strategic Services at 701.250.3942.
 
Leadership Development
Our iLead@11 DakCU Emerging Leader Program is designed specifically for emerging leaders in the credit union industry, based on the popular Leadership@11 program designed by Eleven Performance Group. It is an ongoing program that allows participants to start whenever they want and determine their own pace. Scholarships are also available; complete the application form found here.
 
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