International Relations

Cornerstone League proudly recognizes the impactful involvement of our member credit unions within the global credit union system. Engagement in international efforts not only strengthens communities abroad but also exemplifies the cooperative spirit that has driven our industry for over 100 years.
By partnering with global credit union organizations, our members are fostering financial inclusion and contributing to sustainable growth across borders. Together, we are building a brighter financial future for individuals and communities around the world—one that reflects the true power of cooperation and mutual success.
International Engagement
Through financial initiatives, global engagement, and collaborative activities, credit unions are expanding their reach to help transform lives and communities. Cornerstone is pleased to feature stories that reflect our members’ international good works. To contribute a story of your own, please send to media@cornerstoneleague.coop.
Happy International Credit Union Day: Let’s Celebrate Our Victories
Read time: 1 min, 15 secs
Happy International Credit Union Day!
While it’s no secret that credit unions are constantly seeking ways to engage with their communities and make a positive impact, it still feels like a well-kept secret. This ICU Day, don’t hesitate to celebrate your victories by sharing them on social media with the hashtag #ICUDay2024. Let’s shine a light on these moments of compassion, inspiration, and humanity.
The Credit Union Difference Is Everywhere
There were some great wins shared in last week’s Leaguer. For example, Mexico, Mo.-based United Credit Union recently donated a school building to a local philanthropic organization and paid off public school students’ lunch balances. These acts work to foster educational enrichment, significantly impacting the community.
That’s just one example in Cornerstone’s five-state region. Credit Union Times recently showcased the 2024 Luminaries Awards finalists in the Community Impact-Credit Union category. The 21 finalists have made impressive and inspiring efforts to give back to their communities. We highly encourage you to review how each credit union is making a difference in their respective communities.

This year’s ICU Day theme, One World Through Cooperative Finance, focuses on the work credit unions around the globe are doing to help develop their communities. This theme was central to our most recent episode of The Cornerstone League Podcast. Listeners were treated to an insightful discussion with Cornerstone’s International Relations Committee members, covering firsthand examples of how credit unions are making a difference worldwide.
Whether related to open banking, microfinance, or fostering global credit union partnerships, it’s undeniable that credit unions are involved and actively seeking strategies to make a positive impact within their communities.
Celebrate ICU Day
Visit the World Council of Credit Unions to make a donation, and you’ll also receive a #ICUDay2024 pin. Help them reach their ICU Day 2024 fundraising goal of $500,000 by sharing your success stories and ICU Day activities. The international credit union community will follow your updates using the hashtag #ICUDAY2024 on social media. We look forward to seeing all you have to share and celebrating together.
Level Up Globally
Learn how you can get involved in international opportunities and make connections around the globe. Whether you want to engage in experiential learning or assist global cooperative efforts first-hand, different levels of connection can suit your passion. Join our efforts to ensure financial health worldwide.
African Confederation of Cooperative Savings and Credit Associations (ACCOSCA)
A Pan-African confederation of national associations of savings and credit cooperatives societies.
Global Women’s Leadership Network
Seeks to provide women in the credit union arena a safe forum to discuss issues to further their professional and personal journeys, exchange ideas, network with neighboring credit union leaders and provide education
World Council of Credit Unions (WOCCU)
WOCCU represents credit union associations in 98 countries, advancing financial inclusion; engaging in international advocacy, development, and education; and connecting credit union systems worldwide.
World Council's Young Credit Union Professionals
Designed for young credit union professionals and their advocates to connect to the world, engage professional journeys with global perspective, and inspire a force for positive change through financial cooperatives communities everywhere.
Worldwide Foundation for Credit Unions (WFCU)
As WOCCU’s partner, WFCU was established to advance the vision of expanding financial inclusion through a vibrant and growing global credit union system.
International Credit Union Day
Cornerstone League joins the World Council of Credit Unions to celebrate International Credit Union Day on the third Thursday of October every year. ICU Day celebrates the spirit of the global credit union movement. We raise awareness on ICU Day to promote the movement’s achievements, share member experiences, and give members the opportunity to get more engaged.
Participate
Worldwide Foundation of Credit Unions enables you to participate in ICU Day by offering items and ideas that emphasize our role as a global force for financial inclusion and well-being. Explore the meaningful actions you can take to make that happen as you and your credit union teams celebrate ICU Day.
