Charleville Credit Union on its 50th Year Celebrates International Credit Union Day

International Credit Union has been celebrated on the third Thursday of October since 1948. The day is recognised to reflect upon the credit union movement’s history and to promote its achievements. It is a day to honor those who have dedicated their lives to the movement, recognise the hard work of those working in the credit union industry and show members our appreciation. This year’s ICU Day will take place on October 17th. Its theme, “Credit Unions Unite for Good: A Better Way,” emphasises the benefits of co-operation among Credit Unions worldwide.

Credit Unions are unique because they are local, not-for-profit, democratically controlled, member-owned co-operatives. Members of Credit Unions pool their assets to provide low-cost loans and other financial services to each other. In the midst of many banks closing their local branches, the continued presence of the Credit Union in the community is of vital importance.

This is a very special year for Charleville Credit Union as it is celebrating 50 years service to the local community. In the past 12 months, this Credit Union gave out loans in excess of €3 million to the community. That means that many hundreds of families benefited directly from lending services last year alone. And last year our membership increased which is a big sign that people are moving away from banks and towards Credit Unions.

Charleville Credit Union offers something different. We provide affordable loans and a safe place for savings. At no cost to our eligible member we provide;

Loan Protection Insurance on our loans – that means in the event of death your credit union loan dies with you and is not passed to your estate.

Life Savings Insurance – that means that in the event of your death, your next of kin will not only receive your savings but also possibly an additional lump sum on top of that which has built up over the term of your membership.

Nomination facility – members over 16 years of age can nominate a person (or persons) to receive his/her property in the Credit Union on his/her death. This is of benefit if the member dies without leaving a will as the property left in the Credit Union will not have to pass through the sometimes timely intestacy process.

Credit Unions play a vital role in the economic development and stability of the communities they serve, helping people to improve their lives through access to affordable financial services. This international Credit Union Day, we hope everyone will join us in celebrating the Credit Union difference and the wonderful opportunities credit union membership will offer people of Charleville Credit Union for many years to come.

Charleville Credit Union invite you, the members, to join them in celebrating International Credit Union Day on Thursday the 17th of October, at 2.30pm in the office. Light refresh-ments will be available together with the presen-tation of the Community Person of the Year Award. Pat Savage, chairman, said: “This year’s celebrations are exceptionally special due to the fact that we are celebrating our 50th birthday. I am delighted as chairperson to inform you that you will receive a birthday present if you call to the Credit Union between now and the 26th of October. All existing members with ATM cards and new members with ATM card applications can enter their name for an ATM card free of charge for 12 months. To celebrate with our members we are holding membership draws for 3 consecutive days giving away €50 to the fiftieth person who completes a transaction on the day before International Credit Union Day which is the 16th October and also on the day 17th October and the day after 18th October.

“I would like to thank all the loyal members of Charleville Credit Union for their continued support and look forward to seeing you on the day.”