Whether it’s helping a member escape predatory lending, rebuild credit, weather an illness, save for a home, or simply be given a second chance, credit unions are uniquely equipped to provide a lifeline when other financial institutions can’t or won’t. Check out our collection of stories below–all submitted by Wisconsin’s credit unions. Have your own story you’d like to share? Submit your story here.

Dreaming of Life on the Farm
Viridiana and her family had always dreamed of living on a farm, and they found the perfect rehab opportunity, including several acres of land complete with three barns. After initially being denied/rejected for financing, they decided to apply with us.

Financial Success Through In-School Branch Education
Royal’s Rice Lake Branch Manager recently congratulated a Member on their great credit score. His response was, “I’ve had a great teacher since I was a part of the School $ense program in 4th grade!”
Story Collection
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Providing Pandemic Relief to Small BusinessesWe recently took advantage of a grant opportunity for CDFIs provided by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC).
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Personable & Professional During Difficult TimesA member had recently gone through a divorce and shared her appreciation for staff at one of our branch locations.
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From Insecurity to Tears of JoyInitially, she expressed feelings of insecurity about finances, but our staff was able to make her feel comfortable.
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The Extra Mile for a Stranded MemberOne of our members was in desperate need of help with an auto loan. Her car had died, she had limited income, and she was left stranded without it.
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Consolidating Debt & Satisfying CollectionsMany banks would not consider granting the loan due to the existence of those collections, but we were willing to give the member the loan AND help clear up those items.
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More than a Simple Auto Loan Refie not only discovered another auto loan with a higher rate than what Prospera could offer, but a few more loans that could be refinanced as well.
What’s a Credit Union?
What makes credit unions different from other financial institutions, and why does it matter?
Don’t Tax My Credit Union
Credit unions are different than banks. As not-for-profit financial institutions, credit unions put people first. That’s why more than 140 million Americans choose credit unions as their trusted financial partner.
Credit Unions vs. Banks
What’s the difference between a credit union and bank? Check out this interactive infographic!
Share Your Stories
From accounts of above and beyond member service, to granted second chances, to responses to disaster, to meeting community needs, to returning funds back to their members through patronage, and more—your stories educate policymakers and the public about their banking options and are vital to preserving The Credit Union Difference.

