Madison, WI—Corporate One Federal Credit Union has invited the corporate credit union network to explore new ways to reach the growing Hispanic market by attending its annual Winter Operations Forum in Queretaro, Mexico, January 26-30, 2008, hosted in collaboration with World Council of Credit Unions (WOCCU).

“The forum’s focus on Hispanic outreach has significant relevance in today’s world,” explained Pete Crear, WOCCU President and CEO. “With 64% of the 44.3 million Hispanics living in the United States coming from Mexico, Queretaro is an ideal place to highlight the opportunities corporates have in helping reach this growing and largely unbanked market.”

The 2008 Winter Operations Forum will feature speakers on topics such as international payment systems, cross channel risk, risk management, FedACH International services and serving underserved markets. Participants will gain greater perspective on the international credit union system through visits to a credit union office and rural branch.

As “not-for-profit financial institutions, providing service to their member-owners,” credit unions are charged with meeting the challenges of serving the underserved, reminded Lisa Coffey, Southeast Corporate Federal Credit Union Vice President, Item Processing and Corporate Operations Forum Committee Chairperson.

“The corporate credit union network has a responsibility to assist their credit union members in making a difference for their members and the communities they serve,” Coffey explained.

Lee Butke, Corporate One Federal Credit Union CEO and event host, said conference attendees can expect to leave the event with deeper understanding of the solutions credit unions need to meet member demand, especially in the area of international remittances.

“A new world requires new thinking and solutions,” Butke said. “The need is great, but the support of the corporate network at this conference will be a great first step in helping meet the challenges faced by so many.”

Corporate One has partnered with WOCCU on several initiatives to increase access to affordable financial services around the world. WOCCU currently has a credit union development program based in Queretaro.