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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Lowering Rates, Shortening Terms, Lowering PaymentsA couple came into WESTconsin who had just wanted to open a savings and checking account. While opening these accounts, our Member Service Representative had a chance to review their financials.
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Avoiding Foreclosure & Paying Off Hard Money LenderWhen it came time for a veteran-family owned and operated motel to pay off their land contract to finalize the purchase of real estate, several banks turned them down and they resorted to a hard-money lender to fulfill their obligations.
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“Thank You For Helping Save a Small Local Business”“The fact that you spent time funding our small $9,000 PPP loan just may have saved my business!”
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The Meaning of Member LoyaltyA member called to check her account balance shortly after we had paid out dividends for our Member Loyalty Cash program.
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Helping Small Business During COVID-19As many small businesses were being put under hardships regarding pandemic restrictions, we knew we had to step up.
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Committed to Financial Literacy in the CommunityThe payday loan cycle starts slow and spirals quickly. One of our members got behind because of a $200 car repair and took out her first payday loan.
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.

