Celebrating International Credit Union Day in Our Community

Every year, International Credit Union Day® celebrates the positive impact credit unions have on their members and communities around the world. It's an opportunity to recognize banking built on service, cooperation, and the belief that financial institutions should put people first.

At Evergreen Credit Union, that philosophy extends beyond helping members achieve their financial goals. We are investing in the communities we serve, building meaningful partnerships, and giving back through volunteerism and local support initiatives.

What Is International Credit Union Day?

International Credit Union Day, observed annually on the third Thursday of October, honors the credit union movement and its commitment to improving the financial well-being of members worldwide.

Credit unions can help fulfill financial needs while also helping people buy homes, save for the future, and strengthen local communities. The day celebrates the cooperative principles that set credit unions apart and recognizes the positive difference they make every day.

What's the Difference Between a Credit Union and a Bank?

Credit Unions Are Member-Owned

Credit unions are owned by their members, meaning every member has a stake in the organization. Traditional banks are for-profit institutions that operate to generate returns for shareholders. Credit unions, on the other hand, reinvest earnings back into the organization and its membership through competitive rates, lower fees, improved services, and community investments.

People Before Profits

Because credit unions are member-focused, decisions are made with members' best interests in mind. The goal is to help people achieve financial success while creating stronger communities. The credit union motto, "People Helping People," is a guiding principle that shapes how Evergreen Credit Union serves Southern Maine.

Our Commitment to Community

The “People Helping People” slogan was on full display during our recent Community Day, when our staff of over 120 people volunteered across six different nonprofit organizations throughout our service area. Employees spent the day supporting local causes through hands-on projects that made meaningful community impacts, from cleaning common spaces to renovating bridges.

Through our Community Partnerships program, Evergreen works alongside local organizations that are making a difference throughout Southern Maine. By collaborating with local organizations, Evergreen can support efforts that address a wide range of community needs, including financial education, food insecurity, housing and homelessness services, youth development programs, and environmental and community improvement projects.

These partnerships create lasting connections and help ensure resources stay local, benefiting the people and neighborhoods that make Southern Maine a vibrant place to live and work.

Why Community Involvement Matters

For credit unions, community involvement is a natural extension of serving members. We recognize that when people have access to resources and opportunities, entire communities thrive. We're committed to supporting initiatives that improve the quality of life for our members and neighbors throughout Southern Maine.