On Thursday, October 17, 2024, we will gather together as a global movement to celebrate International Credit Union Day® (ICU Day) under the theme: One World Through Cooperative Finance. At a time in our history when we seem increasingly divided, we choose to use this day to show how our movement brings people closer together through democratic, member-owned financial institutions that put people over profit.

History of ICU Day

The founding idea of credit unions was simple – that people could pool their money and make loans to each other. That principle still shapes how we do business today.

If you’re a history buff, you can learn more about the history of credit unions.

Straight From Our Team

We are proud to share that our Members Trust Team has over 250 cumulative years of credit union experience so in honor of ICU Day®, we thought it would be fun to ask our team a few questions. Here’s what they had to say.

What about the credit union industry
is most appealing to you?

• Credit Unions listen and talk to their members. They don’t see a number but a real person.
• Our service to members. How we build friendships and relationships.
• Being able to interact with our members.
• Being able to assist members, which includes their families, friends, and others with their finances so they can then achieve their financial goals.
• They focus on the community and helping everyone succeed financially.
• Helping people gain financial independence.
• Putting the interests of the members first and helping others in the community.
• Being able to help members with their financial goals.
• It is member-centric and community-minded. Credit unions are usually local or regional, which means the service is more personal.
• Not For Profit compared to regular banks.
• I love that the rates offered on loans are competitive, and usually lower than anywhere else.
• Easier to bank with than other banks.
• It focuses on each member’s specific needs and does not put pressure to meet certain sales quotas.

What’s something about credit unions or specifically about MTFCU
that is NOT talked about enough that we need to share?

• We have lots of years of experience helping members. We adapt and change to better serve our members based on their needs. We are respectful and dependable.
• Idea sharing.
• How we don’t treat folks like a number. They are treated with respect.
• Too many individuals still do not know the meaning or reason credit unions exist. This is why International Credit Union Day is so important.
• Our impact on our communities.
• Credit Unions do business lending and are here to help small and large business owners.
• CUs have just as much ability to serve their members as big banks.
• We strive to help all of our members, and we are here for them. They are our #1 priority. I think this should be shared more. Some members know this but there might be some new members that need to be reassured.
• Unlike banks, credit unions take their profits and use them to help members with low-interest loans and other financial services. Most don’t know that a Credit Union offers very similar services to banks but with lower costs and fees.
• How much we actually do for the community and how often we give back to the community.
• Our willingness to help out members even if their credit is less than stellar if they have a history with us.
• Our Mortgage department and how it is growing.
• Prompt and timely communication at each level, which results in excellent teamwork.

What’s the number one reason/benefit why consumers
should join a credit union?

• We are not owned by stockholders looking for a return on their investments. Members are our owners.
• Better service, and community involvement.
• For the personal service we pass on to the members. We care about people and what is going on in their life.
• Lower fees and personal interaction.
• Because most employees believe and follow the credit union philosophy of, “People Helping People”. Credit Union benefits when compared to other financial options are overwhelming.
• We are local. You know the people you work with.
• You are not just a number; WE are here to help you succeed.
• Having an institution that is in the same community as you and actually cares about your financial well-being.
• One-on-one attention to the member.
• Credit unions give back earnings to members.
• I would say because of the rates. If they are looking for a loan, it is always good to have a relationship with a CU.
• We offer all the perks of a regular bank, and then some.
• We normally have lower rates and know most of our members by name.
• To experience the unique opportunities of banking with an institution that truly cares about its business.

We think our employees said it best but to learn more about the Credit Union difference, visit NAFCU to see why credit unions are the best option for safe, affordable financial services for all!

HELP US CELEBRATE!

Join more than 403 million members in 98 countries who also recognize and celebrate the credit union difference.

Stop by the lobby on Thursday, October 17^th, and enjoy refreshments, to honor ICU Day!