The credit union idea arose centuries ago as people worked under a common effort without thought of profit – they put out fires, harvested crops, and avoided high-priced loans by lending to one another.
In the 1850’s, hard times hit Germany, and people turned to each other for help. They removed small savings from under mattresses and made reasonably priced loans to one another, forming the original credit unions. In the 1920’s, Edward Filene took cooperative finance to the next level in Boston, as a means of lifting working people out of debt and creating a better life.
On January 17, 1927, the Credit Union League of Massachusetts celebrated the first official holiday. January 17th is the birthday of Benjamin Franklin, America’s “Apostle of Thrift,” who credit union founders believed to symbolize the purpose and spirit of credit unions. During this time, the credit union movement was new and spreading. People involved only began to recognize the celebration’s significance and were unable to devote the time required for sufficient planning.
The U.S. Credit Union National Association (CUNA) and CUNA Mutual Insurance Society initiated a new national Credit Union Day celebration in 1948. The third Thursday of October was set aside as the national day of observance. This occasion brought members together to promote the credit union philosophy nationally and reflect upon credit union achievements and history. Members raised funds for the movement and paid homage to loyal supporters and pioneers.
The World Council of Credit Unions (WOCCU), established in 1971, assists credit union movements and supports their development around the world. WOCCU observed the first International Credit Union (ICU) Day more than 30 years ago, and continues to endorse global celebrations. The credit union movement has grown to 188 million members in 100 countries. Celebrate the credit union difference during this year’s ICU Day – October 18, 2012.
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Credit Unions are a wonderful resource for everyday banking, obtaining lower interest rate loans, Christmas clubs, and the list goes on and on. Call Advantage Credit Counseling Service today at 1-866-699-2227 to ask us about Credit Unions and other things that are credit related.
