Madison, WI (October 16, 2025) – Today marks the 77th International Credit Union Day, and Wisconsin’s credit unions are celebrating by giving back to their communities.
This week, over 40 Wisconsin credit unions and The League are demonstrating their commitment to the cooperative principles, including Concern for Community and Cooperation Among Cooperatives, during a statewide, week-long CU Community Days event.
From combatting food insecurity to assembling hygiene kits, to highway cleanup and much more, credit unions across the state are illustrating just some of the ways they work throughout the year to foster the well-being of all Wisconsinites.
“Credit unions, by design, are equipped to support their communities inside and outside of their branches,” said Sarah Wainscott, The League’s President & CEO. “CU Community Days and International Credit Union Day are our opportunity to shine a spotlight on their meaningful work happening year-round.”
This year’s International Credit Union Day also coincides with the United Nations’ declaration of 2025 as the International Year of Cooperatives, a global celebration of how cooperatives build a better world through their vital role in sustainable development, inclusive growth, and strengthening community resilience.
As not-for-profit cooperatives, credit unions provide an effective and viable alternative to for-profit financial institutions for more than 411 million members in 104 countries worldwide. More than 74,000 credit unions exist globally, providing financial services for their members and being recognized as a force for positive economic and social change.
So far this year, Wisconsin’s credit unions’ benefit to members has exceeded $867 million through better rates and lower fees, and credit unions have donated $9 million to charities, community projects, and civic groups, along with countless volunteer hours. Additionally, a recent survey revealed that 97% of the state’s credit unions have participated in activities to combat food insecurity, including volunteering or donations.
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.
