Credit unions around the world will be celebrating International Credit Union Day on 21 October and this year’s theme is ‘Building financial health for a brighter tomorrow’.
International Credit Union Day is an annual event to commemorate the credit union movement’s impact and achievements. This year marks the 73rd anniversary and credit unions all over the world will be celebrating.
Credit unions like ours are not-for-profit financial co-operatives that provide an effective alternative to profit-making financial institutions for more than 291 million members in 118 countries. More than 86,000 credit unions exist globally, offering a wide range of financial services for their members. They are recognized as a force for positive economic and social change.
Since 1948, International Credit Union Day has been celebrated annually on the third Thursday of October. Each year, this international event provides an opportunity to remember credit union history, to promote awareness of the credit union difference and to encourage new members.
This year’s theme is ‘Building financial health for a brighter tomorrow’. The COVID-19 pandemic continues to challenge the financial well-being of credit union members around the globe. This theme highlights the way credit unions are responding to that challenge by working with members to help them rebuild their livelihoods.
Credit Union Chief Executive Martin Groombridge said: “International Credit Union Day is an annual opportunity to recognise the valuable contribution of credit unions in society. As communities all over the world begin to recover from the pandemic, the role of credit unions is more important than ever, as they help their members to get back on their feet.
“Credit unions play a vital role in building financial health for both individuals and communities, ensuring that money stays within a community, rather than ending up as profit for shareholders, and sowing the seeds for a brighter tomorrow for everyone.”
International Credit Union Day is recognised by the World Council of Credit Unions, the global trade association for credit unions and other financial co-operatives, as well as numerous national credit union trade associations and federations around the world.
On 21 October, credit unions from around the world will join forces to celebrate the day with events and activities in their local communities. Credit unions will be sharing their activities on social media using #ICUDay.
