Happy International Credit Union Day!

This October 17, Educators Credit Union will join thousands of credit unions from across the globe to celebrate International Credit Union (ICU) Day! The third Thursday of October has been dedicated to honoring credit unions and all their members since its launch in 1948.

What is International Credit Union Day?

This day highlights the active role credit unions play in the financial wellness of communities throughout the world and reflects the importance of its history and principals. This year’s theme, One World Through Cooperative Finance, illustrates how the credit union movement can bring people together with the shared goal of putting people over profit!

Why do millions of people worldwide choose credit unions?

Because credit unions have a “people-first” philosophy that guides us to constantly improve our communities and the lives of our members. This local service contributes to a worldwide network that reaches more than 400 million members across the globe. As a financial cooperative, each credit union’s success depends on the success of their members and their community.

Your best interest is our best interest.

What else makes credit unions unique?

Credit unions come in all different shapes and sizes, but here are some things we all have in common. These are also some of the many reasons to celebrate International Credit Union Day!

• Equal Ownership: Credit unions are member-owned and member-operated. Each member has equal ownership and one vote regardless of how much money he or she has in savings.
• Not-for-Profit: Credit unions are not-for-profit financial cooperatives that provide a safe, convenient place for members to save money, and access loans and other financial services at reasonable rates.
• People Helping People: Credit unions exist to serve their members, not to make a profit. Every member counts. This “people-first” philosophy drives credit unions and their employees to get involved in their community and support meaningful causes.
• Volunteer Leadership: Each credit union is governed by a volunteer board of directors elected by and from the credit union’s membership.
• Financial Education for Members: Credit unions have a deep commitment to providing financial education to members and the public at no cost. Educators Credit Union even offers financial education for classrooms and students heading to college!
• Trust: Credit unions are known for being trustworthy and resilient institutions. Credit union members worldwide can be proud of these accomplishments and rest assured that their money is safe at their credit union.

Thank YOU for choosing Educators Credit Union to be your credit union! Do you have a story to share about Educators Credit Union? We’d love to hear from you! Tell us about it at www.ecu.com/share-testimonial.

Happy International Credit Union Day!