About the Council

The Women’s Advisory Council of Ellafi Federal Credit Union and Ellafi Kind serves as an advisory body supporting strategic growth, community impact, and product innovation. Members bring professional expertise and lived experience to refine products and services, strengthen fundraising and donation strategy, and provide structured guidance to our leadership team.

The Council also offers a leadership development pathway, preparing members for future governance opportunities, including potential Board of Directors service or other volunteer leadership roles.

 

Core Responsibilities

  • Strategic Insight: Provide feedback on credit union products, services, and member experience.
  • Nonprofit Collaboration: Advise on fundraising strategy, donation planning, and community partnerships for Ellafi Kind.
  • Community Perspective: Share insights from professional and community networks to inform innovation and accessibility.
  • Quarterly Board Reporting: Deliver concise quarterly reports summarizing recommendations, key themes, and emerging opportunities or risks.
  • Ambassadorship: Serve as a positive ambassador for both organizations.

 

Expectations of Council Members

Meetings

  • One hour monthly
  • Alternates between in-person (Middletown) and virtual
  • Notify leadership if unable to attend

Preparation & Participation

  • Review materials before meetings
  • Engage actively in discussions
  • Contribute to quarterly board reports

Confidentiality & Conduct

  • Maintain strict confidentiality regarding member data and organizational strategy
  • Avoid conflicts of interest
  • Engage respectfully and collaboratively

 

Principles of Service

While advisory in nature, members uphold governance-aligned standards:

  • Duty of Care: Act with diligence and informed judgment
  • Duty of Loyalty: Place organizational and community interests above personal interests
  • Duty of Confidentiality: Safeguard sensitive information

Council members do not hold governing authority; final decisions remain with the Board of Directors and leadership.

 

Benefits and Opportunities

Serving on the Council offers:

  • Meaningful exposure to governance and strategic oversight
  • Development for potential roles on the Supervisory Committee or Board of Directors
  • Opportunities for additional volunteer leadership within Ellafi FCU or Ellafi Kind

 

FAQs

1. Is financial services experience required?
No. Diverse backgrounds strengthen the Council.

2. Is this a governing body?
No. The Council is advisory and reports quarterly to the Board of Directors.

3. Is there compensation?
Service is voluntary and mission-driven.

 

Ready to Learn More?

Come to our Drop In Meet and Greet 
Tuesday, April 7 from 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Main Office: 524 South Main Street, Middletown, CT 06457

 

If you’re interested in contributing your expertise and supporting our mission, please reach out.

  • Kristen Jensen, VP of Community and Business Relationships

Ellafi Federal Credit Union Membership Area Includes:

  • Branford
  • Cheshire
  • Chester
  • Clinton
  • Cromwell
  • Deep River
  • Durham
  • East Haddam
  • East Haven
  • Essex
  • Guilford
  • Haddam
  • Higganum
  • Killingworth
  • Madison
  • Meriden
  • Middlefield
  • Middletown
  • North Branford
  • North Haven
  • Old Saybrook
  • Portland
  • Wallingford
  • Westbrook

Become a Member