International Credit Union Day: Find Your Platinum Lining

Are you as excited as we are to celebrate International Credit Union Day on October 18, 2018? This year marks the 70th anniversary of International Credit Union Day and this year’s theme is “Find Your Platinum Lining in Credit Unions.”

The theme combines the traditional gift of platinum for 70th anniversaries, a play on the saying “every cloud has a silver lining,” and a celebration of the platinum-lined differences and impact credit unions have made and continue to make for their members and communities.

It’s a day to share your experiences as a member and to reflect upon all the benefits you enjoy by being a part of your credit union. It’s also a day to have fun! We will have cider and donuts at all of our branches on Thursday, October 18 to celebrate ICU Day so make sure you stop by!

In the spirit of ICU Day, let’s take a quick look at four factors that can help you find your platinum lining in credit unions!

1.) Foundation is members, not customers
As a member of a credit union, you own a piece of the organization. That’s why it’s often referred to as a cooperative. Your credit union only wants what’s best for you. This means we can focus on offering superior service and policies that are as member-friendly as possible.

2.) Bridge to financial wellness
A credit union will be willing to work with you through rough patches. While a bank is more likely to turn down a borrower who has a poor credit history, a credit union member representative will be happy to meet with you and work to find a loan that best suits your needs. If necessary, we can also help you learn the basics of budgeting and may offer programs to help you cover unexpected expenses. We also offer a variety of Financial Resources to help our members build their financial skills.

3.) Lower fees
Banks earn much of their profit through fees and pushing unnecessary products on their customers. While a credit union will also have fees attached to products and services, these tend to be lower than similar fees you’ll find at a bank.

4.) Better dividend rates
Credit unions offer higher dividend rates on savings accounts and lower interest rates on loans. Credit unions only need to cover operating costs, and all the money we save is passed down to our members in the form of favorable rates, enhanced services, community giving, increased operations and more. 

As you can see, we’ve got lots to celebrate! Stop by on Oct. 18 so we can show our appreciation and celebrate everything that makes a credit union special. Can’t wait to see you!