On October 16, 2025, credit union members around the world will celebrate International Credit Union Day, an annual event to commemorate the credit union movement’s impact and achievements. This year marks the 77th anniversary of this annual event, which will be celebrated under the theme of “Cooperation for a Prosperous World”.

Credit unions truly have the perfect business model to make a commitment to members and communities across the world. The global credit union movement is now more than 411 million members strong, and they are served by more than 74,000 credit unions in 104 countries.

What makes credit unions unique?

Member-Owned:
You are more than a member, you are part owner. Credit unions are owned and controlled by the people, or members, who use their services. Your vote counts. A volunteer board of directors is elected by members to manage a credit union.

Not for Profit:
Credit unions operate to promote the well-being of their members. Profits made by credit unions are returned back to members in the form of reduced fees, higher savings rates and lower loan rates.

Social Purpose:
Credit unions exist to help people. Our goal is to serve all of our members well – every member counts. Our members know their credit union will be there for them in bad times, as well as good.

Volunteer Leadership:
Each credit union is governed by a board of directors, elected by and from the credit union’s membership. Board members serve voluntarily.

Financial Education for Members:
Credit Unions assist members to become better-educated consumers of financial services through seminars, digital resources, financial literally courses, and more!

Trust:
Credit unions have been recognized for their reliability and strength during challenging times. Members around the world can take pride in these achievements and feel confident knowing their finances are secure with their credit union.

Since 1948, International Credit Union Day has been celebrated annually on the third Thursday of October. Each year, the international event affords the opportunity to remember credit unions’ proud history and promote awareness of and support for the credit union and financial cooperative difference.

International Credit Union Day is organized by World Council of Credit Unions, the global trade association and development platform for credit unions and other financial cooperatives, as well as numerous national credit union trade associations and federations around the world.

With over 70 years of experience, $1.9 billion in assets, and a membership of over 31,000, Self Reliance Financial Federal Credit Union proudly serves communities across Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania delivering personalized service and responsive support.