Weathering the storm...

2009 proved to be one of the most turbulent economic times our nation has faced since the Great Depression. The "economic storm" we have, and continue to weather affected everyone from Wall Street and Main Street, to you and me. With all of the negative publicity the financial services industry received last year (much of it well deserved), I wanted to take this opportunity to assure you that SunWest is a financially stable and operationally sound financial institution, with ample liquidity and capital.

This does not mean that we were immune to some of the negative consequences arising from the depressed housing market and rapidly increasing unemployment. Even though SunWest did not participate in risky or subprime lending, we are experiencing increased loan losses as the aforementioned economic issues affect our members. We have implemented several programs to help alleviate some of these issues in an effort to get out in front of future problems, but we need your help. If you are experiencing financial difficulties, talk to us early in the process. Through our loan modification program, we may be able to help you get back on track and avoid the drastic measures that can impact your financial future for years to come.

Also, remember that your funds on deposit with SunWest are insured by the NCUSIF and continue to be backed by the full faith and credit of the United States government, up to at least $250,000. Individual

Retirement Accounts (IRAs) are insured separately up to $250,000.

If you would like to review your coverage or are experiencing financial difficulties, please visit your nearest SunWest branch and we would be happy to conduct a financial review with you. We are your credit union, and we are here to serve you – just as we have since 1937. We take this responsibility very seriously and strive to do better each and every day.

Sincerely,

Walter Synowiecki