Press

2015 International Credit Union Day® theme and artwork revealed

“People Helping People®” embodies credit union philosophy

MADISON, WI (June 5, 2015) — Together with Credit Union National Association, World Council of Credit Unions today announced the 2015 International Credit Union (ICU) Day® theme — “People Helping People®” — that embraces the longstanding credit union philosophy. ICU Day is celebrated annually on the third Thursday of October and will take place this year on Oct. 15, 2015.

“‘People helping people’ has always been central to credit unions’ existence,” said Brian Branch, World Council president and CEO. “This timeless concept resonates well with all generations, especially young adults who strongly value socially responsible organizations that put people before profit.”

Earlier this year World Council solicited theme ideas from its member organizations and the public. Out of 30 submissions, several U.S. credit unions suggested variations of this year’s chosen message including:

Central Macomb Community Credit Union, Mich.
Sunrise Family Credit Union, Mich.
Santa Barbara Teachers Federal Credit Union, Calif.
Coastland Federal Credit Union, La.

Those familiar words, “People Helping People,” are engrained in credit union speak and characterize many cooperative principles. Since appearing in several past ICU Day themes from the 1960s and 1980s, the phrase’s meaning has stood the test of time. By adding a modern and colorful design, ICU Day celebrations this year have potential to raise awareness of credit union benefits and ultimately attract more members worldwide—contributing to World Council’s goal of adding 50 million new members by the year 2020.

“Every day credit unions make an incredible difference in the lives of their members,” said Jim Nussle, Credit Union National Association president and CEO. “ICU Day celebrates the power of our movement, our dedication to the cooperative principles, and commitment to serve the best interests of the more than 100 million credit union members in the Unites States.”

Official ICU Day graphics and posters in English and Spanish are available for download on World Council’s website at www.woccu.org/icuday. Promotional materials and other tips to help celebrate International Credit Union Day will soon be available. Credit union representatives and members everywhere are encouraged to share photos, events and other celebration ideas on Twitter and Facebook using #ICUDay.

World Council of Credit Unions is the global trade association and development agency for credit unions. World Council promotes the sustainable development of credit unions and other financial cooperatives around the world to empower people through access to high quality and affordable financial services. World Council advocates on behalf of the global credit union system before international organizations and works with national governments to improve legislation and regulation. Its technical assistance programs introduce new tools and technologies to strengthen credit unions’ financial performance and increase their outreach.

World Council has implemented more than 290 technical assistance programs in 71 countries. Worldwide, 57,000 credit unions in 103 countries serve 208 million people. Learn more about World Council’s impact around the world at www.woccu.org.