On Oct. 16, 2014, credit union members around the world will celebrate International Credit Union Day, an annual event to commemorate the credit union movement’s impact and achievements. In honor of this special day, DOCO Credit Union invites its members and the entire community to its branches for refreshments, contests and giveaways.  

Credit unions are not-for-profit financial cooperatives that provide an effective and viable alternative to for-profit financial institutions for nearly 208 million members in 103 countries worldwide. Worldwide, 57,000 credit unions exist to serve their members, providing a safe place to save money and access affordable loans.

Since 1948, International Credit Union Day has been celebrated annually on the third Thursday of October. Each year, the international event affords the opportunity to remember credit unions’ proud history and promote awareness of and support for the credit union difference. This year’s theme, “Local Service. Global Good.,” emphasizes credit unions' positive impact in their communities and around the world. 

Credit unions are recognized as a force for positive economic and social change and have provided significant value in both developed and emerging nations. International Credit Union Day is sponsored by World Council of Credit Unions, the international trade association and development agency for credit unions, as well as numerous national credit union trade associations and federations around the world. 

Albany CEO will have more on International Credit Union Day on Monday.