Twenty small CUs can get some virtual assistance

LAKEWOOD, N.J. -Small credit unions are often understaffed, but New Jersey-based Credit Union Virtual Assistant (CUVA) says they don’t have to be. CUVA (www.cuva.us) offers a virtual assistant product scheduled to roll out in December. CUVA will help credit unions create marketing plans and will custom design all marketing materials such as brochures, newsletters, and statement stuffers. The virtual assistant can also assist in letter writing and surveys. “It’s hard to predict everything CUVA will do for credit unions,” said Laura Enock, founder and president of CUVA. “Since every credit union is different, there will be requests we can’t foresee. A list of standard services is on the Web site but credit unions can request anything they need. If we can accommodate them, we will.” Enoch said one flat fee covers a full year of unlimited Virtual Assistant services. CUVA hopes to help credit unions save money, too, by trimming unnecessary expenses and finding the lowest priced vendors. Currently, capacity at CUVA is limited to 20 credit unions and is needs based. To be eligible, a credit union must have under $50 million in assets and must request services by November 29th. Credit unions may request an application for services on the Web site, where a free marketing plan workbook is also available.