Published on October 16, 2023
Why International Credit Union Day this Thursday is important for members
It seems as if every industry has their “day of the year.” For credit unions, Thursday, October 19, is our day, and we’re extremely proud of it.
Join us in celebrating International Credit Union Day (ICU Day) on Thursday, October 19! Wait, you didn’t know that credit unions were an international phenomenon? They are, and more people like you are enjoying the benefits every year.
As a member and supporter of the World Council of Credit Unions, we share ideas and best practices with colleagues as far away as Costa Rica and Europe. One of those best practices is bringing financial inclusion to members of all backgrounds around the world. It’s part of a global movement that also includes our national trade organization, the Credit Union Association of North America (CUNA).
As a reminder, one of the biggest benefits that a credit union provides compared to other financial institutions is the fact that credit unions are designed to serve members rather than create profits for stockholders. Profits are reinvested into the organization. As a result, Community Choice and other credit unions are able to provide the same, and often higher levels of services and accessibility to members compared to traditional banks.
Just as important is the fact that credit unions bring financial inclusion and well-being to people all over the world. You don’t have to have a mortgage through a credit union, or a certain amount money in an account to qualify for the same level of services as any other member. And all members are eligible for some of the same benefits, including $12 in monthly rewards paid back and 10 percent loan interest rebate eligibility as part of our GetBigRewards program!
At Community Choice, we also offer such services include Choice Map, a service that helps you stay on a solid financial path and Digital Wallet, which allows for safe, quick checkouts while shopping online. Additionally, we offer a full range of Treasury Services for our entrepreneurial members and small businesses owners. Community Choice is always looking for ways to increase and improve members’ access to these services and their accounts. After all, we’re a credit union. It’s what we do.
So, this week, ICU Day will serve as a celebration of our members, who have taken an important step towards living the life they dream of. We’re not just a place to store money or process direct deposits. Instead, Community Choice and credit unions like us want to be community gathering places that foment a comfortable and inviting environments for all. Perhaps that’s why 4,000-plus new members joined Community Choice in 2022 and our numbers continue to grow in 2023.
We hope you have the opportunity to visit one of our 24 member centers on Thursday, October 19, to enjoy FREE food from local food trucks from 5-7 pm while supplies last! Bring friends, neighbors, and family so they can be introduced to the credit union experience as well. Anyone can become a member! It’s our small way of saying, “thank you” for your membership, and “welcome” to those considering membership.
Remember, we believe in helping our neighbors achieve the life they desire.