As a credit union member, you know all the spectacular benefits you receive from banking with BHCU. From lower fees to better savings, individuals who join a credit union enjoy a plethora of advantages. While you are well aware of the credit union difference, do you know the history of how credit unions came to be? If not, don’t worry—BHCU experts are weighing in and sharing the rich history surrounding International Credit Union Day, their benefits, and how you can celebrate this year’s theme—“EMPOWER Your Financial Future with a Credit Union™.”

The History of ICU Day

International Credit Union Day 2022 is set to take place on Thursday, October 20, 2022, and the Credit Union National Association (CUNA) announced this year’s theme which is “EMPOWER Your Financial Future with a Credit Union™.” ICU Day celebrates its 74th year in 2022, but it all began on the third Thursday of October in 1948. Back then, CUNA established this day to recognize and reflect upon the history of credit unions and their achievements and to raise awareness of the credit union movement across the nation. Today, ICU Day is a celebration of the impact credit unions have made and continue to make for their members. It also provides an excellent opportunity to engage with current and future members! Credit unions everywhere will participate in fundraising events, open houses, contests, picnics, volunteer events, and parades. If you’re not a member yet, below we highlight several credit union benefits to make your decision easier.  

Credit Union Benefits

There are many benefits of credit union membership. Unlike banks, credit unions are owned by the members they serve. That means any profits they make come back to benefit you, in the form of annual dividends, quality product offerings, low fees, great rates, and exceptional customer service. At BHCU, since we are a not-for-profit financial institution, every decision we make is with you, our members, in mind. You can benefit from this in a variety of ways, including: 

• Personalized service – As a nonprofit organization, we rely on our memberships to continue operating rather than being driven by profit. That means our team at BHCU always goes above and beyond to help members reach financial success through individualized and personalized service. 

• Higher interest rates on savings – We give profits back to our members, meaning you can enjoy better interest rates on products like CDs and savings accounts. 

• Lower fees – At BHCU, we offer lower fees than most banks. 

• Community focus – We make it our mission to invest in the local Delaware County community. While many large financial institutions invest in industrial projects across the state, credit unions partner with local organizations to keep their profits circulating throughout the community. Also, our members and staff tend to have similar interests, live in the same area, and work closely together, so everyone feels like family. 
• Voting rights – As a BHCU member, you have a say on important issues, like electing the leadership in the organization. That’s because as a member, you’ll also become a co-owner of the credit union.  

BHCU – Your Delaware County Credit Union

To highlight the credit union movement, credit unions nationwide celebrate International Credit Union Day on the third Thursday of October every year. Mark your calendar for this year’s event, and don’t forget to stop into BHCU to see how we’re celebrating the special day. If you’ve been searching for a credit union near me that provides comprehensive banking services to its members, look no further than BHCU.