WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – Credit unions should never underestimate the potential or value of a seminar targeting women. Over in Charlotte, North Carolina, Charlotte Metro Credit Union has made inroads to reaching its female demographic. The $130 million credit union has recently presented a seminar on “Getting Out of Debt” at the free Women and Money conference hosted by the North Carolina State Treasurer's Office. Several conferences were held throughout North Carolina, with topics ranging from “Getting Out of Debt” and “How to Purchase Your First Home” to “Retirement Planning”. Over 800 women attended the eight-hour conference in Charlotte held at one of the largest African-American churches in the area, University Park. Charlotte Metro CU was the only credit union conference participant. Deb McLean, Vice President of Marketing with Charlotte Metro, presented the seminar to over 90 participants and ran a video on the dangers of payday lending. Jackson, Michigan-based American 1 Federal Credit Union Vice President of Communications Sharon Kegerreis says a recent Women's Expo not only exceeded expectations but also helped the credit union appeal to its large female demographic. “Women are a strong demographic for us and we felt there is such a need for this type of event,” said Kegerreis. “And we were right – about 300 attendees enjoying a day of pampering, delectable treats and presentation topics addressing how to get financially, physically and legally fit.” The $562 million credit union hosts about two of these events a year typically in the Fall and Spring and Kegerreis says interest from a variety of vendors has also grown. In fact the biggest challenge has been selecting which vendors can be in the Expo. In addition to financial and legal advice, American 1 FCU's Refresh, Reflect and Rejuvenate for Spring Expo offerings ranged from Avon products and custom jewelry to home interior design tips and “natural” face lifts. In addition to direct mail Kegerreis says she made sure the event was heavily promoted not only via radio spots that aired six times a day but also in the credit union newsletter, branch lobbies, local newspapers and even a live remote promotion. “I can't emphasize enough how powerful an impact events like this can be,” said Kegerreis. “We geared the Expo to be a day out for women to really focus on themselves and make personal improvements to their lives. This is a natural fit for us.” [email protected]