🌍 PVKS Credit Union Representatives Visited Poland as Part of the Global Bridges Program

Representatives of PVKS Credit Union took part in the international Global Bridges program organized by the Worldwide Foundation for Credit Unions.
The initiative brought together leaders of credit unions from the USA, Ireland, Poland, and Ukraine to exchange experiences, strengthen partnerships, and foster the development of a global credit union community.

🌍 DAY 1. SOPOT — THE START OF COOPERATION

The first day of the Global Bridges program began in Sopot and marked the starting point for building new international partnerships.
Participants learned about the activities of the National Association of Cooperative Savings and Credit Unions (NACSCU), explored Poland’s open banking system, and discussed state financial supervision
🔹 A key highlight of the day was the signing of the International Agreement on Cooperation and Mutual Assistance between representatives of Poland, Ukraine, Ireland, and the United States — an important step toward strengthening global partnerships within the credit union movement.
The agenda also included presentations by representatives of the USA credit union system — Virginia Credit Union, Financial Center First Credit Union, and the League of Credit Unions — who shared their experiences in service development, member engagement, and digital transformation. Their insights complemented the Polish model, showcasing diverse approaches to management, communication, and community engagement.

⚓ DAY 2. GDYNIA — POLISH EXPERIENCE AND MODERN TECHNOLOGIES

The second day of Global Bridges began with a visit to Primary School No. 26 in Gdynia, where Ukrainian children are studying. Participants met with the school principal, teachers, and coordinators working with Ukrainian students. They learned about Poland’s efforts to support and integrate families who sought refuge in the country. It was a touching reminder that cooperation between credit unions goes beyond finance — it is also about supporting people and future generations.
Later, the delegation visited Kasa Stefczyka, one of the largest credit unions in Poland.
Participants explored the history of Franciszek Stefczyk, the founder of the Polish cooperative credit movement, visited the head office, and learned how modern technologies help the institution deliver high-quality financial services to its members.
The group also toured the Emigration Museum in Gdynia, reflecting on human resilience, unity, and the search for new opportunities.
🚢 The day concluded with a brief tour of Gdynia’s landmarks — leaving participants with bright impressions and valuable insights.

🏙️ DAYS 3–4. WARSAW — RESILIENCE AND THE UKRAINIAN EXPERIENCE

The journey continued in Warsaw, offering a closer look at the social role of credit unions in Poland.
Participants learned about the work of the Via Stella Foundation, which supports Ukrainians displaced by the war.

Representatives of Dundalk Credit Union (Ireland) shared their experience in building strong member communities, developing marketing strategies, and fostering sustainable growth.
The Ukrainian credit union system was presented by Alisa Stetsyshyn, Marketing, Communications, and Grant Management Lead at the Worldwide Foundation for Credit Unions, followed by a presentation from PVKS Credit Union, which showcased its evolution — from consumer lending to supporting farmers and small businesses.
🤝 These sessions demonstrated that while each country has its own path, we all share one mission — creating opportunities for people.

💙 DAY 5. WARSAW — CULTURAL IMPRESSIONS

The final day of the Global Bridges program became a wonderful opportunity to relax after a busy week of meetings and discoveries.
Participants enjoyed a walk through the historic center of Warsaw, and the evening ended with a friendly dinner filled with warmth, gratitude, and a sense of unity among participants from different countries.

🤝 RESULTS OF THE TRIP

The Global Bridges program became a true space for the exchange of experience, professional communication, and inspiration.
It brought together people who sincerely believe in the power of cooperation, shared values, and the idea that credit unions can make a real difference in their members’ lives.
PVKS returns from Poland with new ideas, partnerships, and a vision of how to develop the credit union, drawing on the best international practices.
This experience confirmed that we are moving in the right direction — strengthening cooperation, implementing innovations, and staying true to our main mission: helping people.