As my fellow board members and I spoke to people around Alberta last year, we heard about the challenges and uncertainties that many faced. Often, the stories were difficult to tell and to hear. Most times, they were stories about coping and just getting by. When we had the privilege of talking to a Servus member however, there was a difference. And in that difference it became clear to us that Servus is, and has always been, on the right track with how we serve and treat our members.

Our members, facing the same challenges and financial worries as other Albertans, were excited when they spoke about Servus. They told us that when they visited a branch or spoke to one of our advisors, they were treated with genuine care and respect and they received advice with their best interests at heart. That makes me very proud.

2016 challenged members in many ways, but none as devastating as the fires that burned through homes and businesses in May and June. During the Fort McMurray wildfires, Servus immediately stepped in with a wide range of financial and personal supports. It doesn't seem like much, but the comfort of knowing there is money in the bank account or credit available to buy gas or food after being evacuated could make a huge difference in a member's life. And that's why we did exactly that.

Supporting members like that is both humbling and inspiring. It's proof that at our core, Servus is truly here to serve our members in caring, considerate ways. We take pride in knowing that along with providing expert advice and helping members in good time and in bad, the board was able to approve another Profit Share^® of more than $48 million.

It makes me and the rest of the board proud to be a part of the credit union and confident in management as they find new and better ways to serve our members.

I speak on behalf of the entire board when I say that I couldn’t be more honoured to work with President and Chief Executive Officer Garth Warner, the entire leadership team and the thousands of Servus employees who make a difference in members’ lives every day.

We know the economy has a long way to go before it recovers. But with sound management and by staying true to our values, we know 2017 will be another good year for all our members.

John Lamb, Chair
Board of Directors

Return to Our performance in 2016