MADISON, Wis.–Credit unions have continued to celebrate International Credit Union Week this week, including International Credit Union Day on Thursday.
In addition to a unique video from around the world celebrating ICU Day that was overseen by the Credit Union Daily, which can be viewed here, other activities included:
‘Cooperation’ in Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, more than 40 credit unions and The League are demonstrating their commitment to the cooperative principles, including Concern for Community and Cooperation Among Cooperatives, during a statewide, week-long CU Community Days event, the Wisconsin Credit Union League said.
“From combatting food insecurity to assembling hygiene kits, to highway cleanup and much more, credit unions across the state are illustrating just some of the ways they work throughout the year to foster the well-being of all Wisconsinites,” the league said.
“Credit unions, by design, are equipped to support their communities inside and outside of their branches,” League President and CEO Sarah Wainscott said in a statement. “CU Community Days and International Credit Union Day are our opportunity to shine a spotlight on their meaningful work happening year-round.”
The ROI
According to the league, so far this year Wisconsin’s credit unions’ benefit to members has exceeded $867 million through better rates and lower fees, and credit unions have donated $9 million to charities, community projects, and civic groups, along with countless volunteer hours.
Additionally, a recent survey revealed that 97% of the state’s credit unions have participated in activities to combat food insecurity, including volunteering or donations, the league said.
Giveaways & Surprises
In El Paso, Raiz FCU said its branches on Thursday offered giveaways and “local surprises.”
The credit unions aid members could select from one of the following:
- Boss Chicken vouchers. Receive one free Chicken N Cheese sandwich.
- El Paso Rhinos tickets for the Oct. 17-18 or October 24-25 home games. Cheer on our local hockey team!
Members could also join the fun online by following @raiz.us on Instagram and Facebook, where Raiz gave away 1- $50 gift cards.
“This day is about our members — the teachers, nurses, soldiers, small business owners, and families who make up the heart of Raiz,” President/CEO Max Villaronga said in a statement. “Every loan we approve and savings account we open is aimed at helping individuals achieve stability and confidence. ICU Day serves as a reminder of our mission.”
‘CU Kind Day in Illinois
The Illinois Credit Union League (ICUL) reported credit unions in the state marked another impactful year of CU Kind Day, as statewide initiative dedicated to spreading kindness and supporting local communities.
This year, 74 credit unions and partners came together with the league, including more than 1,800 volunteers who contributed 3,400 volunteer hours.
Their efforts resulted in over $81,000 worth of goods and donations distributed to 140 community organizations statewide, the league said.
Kindness in Action
Volunteers across Illinois engaged in a wide range of activities to meet local needs, including:
- Donating funds to vital programs and services.
- Organizing food, clothing, and supply drives.
- Volunteering at shelters, food banks, and community centers.
- Providing school supplies to students in need.
- Delivering care packages and essentials to families facing hardship.
“CU Kind Day embodies the very best of the credit union movement,” ICUL President and CEO Libby Calderone said in a statement. “Each year we see thousands of volunteers step up to serve their neighbors in meaningful ways. These acts of kindness are not only life-changing for those receiving them—they reaffirm our shared commitment to ‘people helping people.’”
Began in Minnesota
The league noted CU Kind Day was first inspired by the Minnesota Credit Union Network’s efforts to spread kindness in their communities.
Celebrating in Iowa
In Iowa, Dupaco Credit Union celebrated its creation on July 17, 1948 by 10 Dubuque Packing Co. employees
“International Credit Union Day is a great reminder to celebrate what makes credit unions different,” President/CEO Joe Hearn said in a statement. “Dupaco is more than just a local financial institution. We’re a financial cooperative, owned by its community of members with a mission to build a life worth loving.”
Dupaco noted that in 2024 its members worked toward their savings goals by saving and investing $2.7+ billion for their futures. Dupaco paid out $62,551,747 in dividends to its member-owners.
On the loan side, the credit unions said that during 2024 approximately one-in-four loans were for $2,500 or less, helping members tackle goals, big or small, and keeping them affordable.
