From October 13-19, 2014, over 641,000 Maine residents who belong to a credit union will join in the annual worldwide celebration of International Credit Union Week. Across the globe there are 196 million credit union members belonging to over 51,000 credit unions in 100 countries.

For 66 years, credit unions have set aside the third Thursday in October to celebrate International Credit Union Day. This special occasion gives credit unions an opportunity to remember their proud history, while promoting understanding and support for the credit union difference.

Looking at all of the choices available in the financial services industry, the credit union difference is clear: no matter where you are, credit unions are 100 percent focused on meeting and exceeding members’ financial services needs. With credit unions, every member is an owner with an equal vote in the election of the credit union’s volunteer board of directors.

There are no stockholders at credit unions, and earnings are returned to members in the form of lower rates on loans and higher rates on savings, or invested back into the credit union to provide more of the services that members need and want.

Whether a Maine credit union is providing a loan to help a member make their home more energy efficient, giving financial counseling to a member whose company closed its doors, or simply offering a better deal on a used car loan, credit unions are supporting and serving their members and the community as a whole. Locally or internationally, during International Credit Union Week or at any time of the year — a Maine credit union is where you know your money will be local, safe, and great service is guaranteed.

Becoming a credit union member couldn’t be easier! There is a credit union for everyone; use these tips to find the Maine credit union that’s right for you:

• Visit www.mainecreditunions.org, or call the Maine Credit Union League’s Member Services toll-free at 800-442-6715.
• Talk to your neighbors. Some credit unions have a “community” field of membership, serving a region defined by geography rather than by employment or some other association. Ask friends in your community if they know a credit union you may join.
• Ask family members. See if anyone in your family is a member of a credit union, in your community or out of state. Ask them about their experiences.
• Ask your boss. Your company may sponsor a credit union or may be a sponsor group that has access to a credit union. Many employers will directly deposit your paycheck to the credit union.
• Become a member today, and discover the value of becoming an owner of your financial institution.

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