Moving Forward

The conclusion of Labor Day weekend signals the end of summer for many. Although summer for me is my favorite season, each month throughout the year offers its own feeling, smell and activities for us to enjoy with our family and friends. October is a month rich in sensory experiences, the sounds of rustling leaves, the smell of burning leaves, pumpkin everything – beer, coffee, cupcakes, soup—carving of pumpkins, crisp air, bonfires, Oktoberfest celebrations and of course “Halloween”! One of the most astounding Autumn feats of nature is the transformation to a most spectacular vibrant foliage created by God for us to enjoy. I am planning to take a drive through the most picturesque landscape here in Western Pennsylvania and do hope you have a chance to “smell the leaves” during this fall season!

As was previously reported, 2024 was an election year as all adult benefit members had the privilege to vote for Board of Director candidates that will lead our Society over the next four years. We thank all of members that exercised their right to vote. We once again congratulate each of the nine incumbent Directors on their re-election and welcome Ron Bednar as a new Director. Mr. Bednar is a welcomed addition to the Board bringing a wealth of accounting and financial experience to the GCU as his bio is presented on page 2 of the GCU October Magazine, along with photos of all of the Directors who will serve our Society the next four years.

The entire GCU world extends our sincere gratitude and thank you to Mr. John Olick for his many years of service to the GCU as an employee and Board of Director Member as he has retired from the GCU. In his honor, a Moleben Service was conducted during the Board of Director’s third quarter meeting by Fr. Val Michlik, Spiritual Advisor of the GCU. An icon of St. Nicholas, the Patron Saint of the GCU, was presented to Mr. Oslick in honor of the occasion. Photo is below.

As our western states are experiencing devastating forest fires and our southern Florida gulf coast and Mid-Atlantic states are dealing with severe damage created by Hurricane Helene, we have once again activated a special Matching Funds program to financially support the efforts of Catholic Charities, the American Red Cross and the Salvation Army to supply various life sustaining needs to individuals and families affected by these natural disasters. To donate to this program, access the GCU’s website – www.GCUusa.com – and click on the Disaster Relief link or mail a check directly to the GCU Foundation, 5400 Tuscarawas Road, Beaver, PA 15009.

We are in the process of finalizing our 2024 third quarter financial statements as we are projecting a continued increase in assets and surplus along with modest profitability. A detailed financial report of the GCU’s third quarter results will be presented by the GCU’s CFO, Tim Demetres, in the December 2024 issue of the GCU Magazine.

The GCU is extremely fortunate to be in a financial position that allows for capital investments. We are focusing on our Information Technology and processes to provide greater efficiency in servicing our members and agents needs. I invite you to view the article presented by our Chief Operating Officers Jeremy Stephens located on page 3 of the GCU October Magazine highlighting some of these improvements.

In closing, I do hope that you have the opportunity to take some time to relax and enjoy the splendor of the autumn season that God has created! What an incredible feat! As always, please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns you may have.

GOODNESS IS GREAT!

George N. Juba | GCU President CEO