Worldwide CU Movement Agrees: ‘Together We’re Better’

WASHINGTON – Credit unions from the Caribbean to California to Canada fed their members, introduced new products, donated to charities, embarked on financial education programs and even offered a whaling weekend for two to help celebrate yesterday’s International Credit Union Day. President Bush helped in the celebration with a proclamation that commended credit union employees for their "professionalism and commitment to excellence.” Thousands of credit unions staged social events to celebrate the 59-year-old annual tradition, which this year had the theme: “Together We’re Better.” In St. Kits, Nevis Co-operative CU launched a new mortgage program for the Caribbean island’s civil servants. In Ireland, Waterford CU used the opportunity to introduce new insurance and investments products to its members. Coastal Community CU in Canada offered free food and a lottery for a whaling trip for two. Closer to home, Arizona credit unions staged a “Together We Paint” celebration, with hundreds of credit union volunteers taking a day off to paint the homes of elderly and low-income residents. Redwood CU in California had coloring contests for its young members and provided free financial education courses. AmeriCU CU in New York offered free refreshments and a history of the credit union movement at its branches. GHS CU in New York celebrated with the disc jockey from a local radio station broadcasting live from the credit union and by kicking off a winter clothes drive for the needy.