International Credit Union Day is Oct. 18!

October 18, 2018, will mark the 70^th anniversary of International Credit Union Day. This year’s theme is “Find Your Platinum Lining.” It combines the traditional gift of platinum for 70^th anniversaries with a play on the saying “every cloud has a silver lining.”

Credit unions all over the world will be celebrating the history and the success of the “People-not-Profit” philosophy. This year’s theme emphasizes loyalty to members and its mission to provide financial support and guidance.

The movement began in the 1840s as a democratic consumer cooperative by weavers in Rochdale, England. As a result, they were frustrated by bankers who denied them loans simply because they weren’t wealthy. Weavers and workers decided to pool their incomes and loan money to each other. Cooperation put each member on solid financial ground and encouraged their own businesses to flourish.

The need for equitable financial institutions grew. In 1971, the World Council of Credit Unions, Inc., (WOCCU) was created to help establish and maintain viable credit union movements. It has become the leading voice for advocacy and governance on behalf of the international credit union community.

Today, over 235 million people are served by credit unions in 109 countries and six continents.

Join us at any of our branches on Oct. 18 to celebrate International Credit Union Day with light refreshments!