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.
Global Credit Union Community Celebrates ICU Day 2024
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On Oct. 17, credit unions around the world celebrated International Credit Union Day, an event dedicated to showcasing the positive impact credit unions have on their communities. This year’s theme, “One World Through Cooperative Finance,” resonated across the globe as credit unions engaged in activities that embodied the spirit of unity, cooperation, and service.
In Texas, University Federal Credit Union partnered with other local credit unions and Austin Habitat for Humanity to help build homes for their community. Their message was simple but powerful: “On this International Credit Union Day, we’re not just talking about community—we’re building it!” Their photos on social media captured the hands-on impact credit unions can make in real-time.
The Fort Worth Chapter of Credit Unions took a different approach, hosting a lively celebration at Rahr & Sons Brewery. Their post-event caption
summed up the evening: “What an amazing night! Thank you to everyone who came out to the Chapter meeting and celebrated International Credit Union Day with us. We had a BLAST!”
Across the world, credit unions in Canada and the Caribbean also got involved. Coastal Financial Credit Union Limited in Nova Scotia tested residents’ knowledge of credit union history through a fun video shared on social media.
In Barbados, Barbados Public Workers' Co-operative Credit Union Limited hosted its annual luncheon, honoring the visionaries who founded their institution. They shared the message “Together, we continue their legacy, building brighter futures for our members and community.”
The impact of this year's ICU Day extended far beyond local communities. The Worldwide Foundation for Credit Unions reported impressive global engagement. Over 4,700 ICU Day posters and 2,000 logo downloads were recorded, along with 9,000 pins ordered and more than $150,000 raised to support the worldwide credit union movement. The #ICUDay2024 hashtag reached over 52,000 social media users, sparking conversations and driving awareness.
As we look back on ICU Day 2024, it’s clear the credit union movement remains a global force for good. From hands-on community service to meaningful celebrations, credit unions continue proving they are more than financial institutions—they are integral parts of their communities. To help empower these institutions, we implore you to support the World Council of Credit Unions.
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.