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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“I Left the Branch Feeling Like I Was Being Taken Care Of”“My personal computer was accessed by an unknown entity. When I realized what was occurring and that it was probably a scam, I went to the branch to see if any funds had been withdrawn, which they had.”
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Helping RefugeesThe city of Oshkosh has a large refugee population, and the majority have little experience navigating checking or savings accounts, paying bills, and are not financially empowered.
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Finally Treated Like I MatterI am a hard-working single mom who was new to the area. Right before Christmas, the engine on my truck blew, and where I live is not supported by public transit.
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Making Unique Loans WorkThere is still a misconception in mortgage financing about the difficulty of finding financing for singlewide manufactured
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Escape from Debt, Escape from Predatory Lending‘A member at Co-op Credit Union came through the drive-up and wanted to deposit a larger-than-normal check.
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An Onsite Branch at AscendAscend Services, Inc. provides community experiences, education, and employment opportunities that promote individual growth for residents of Manitowoc County.
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.

