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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Assisting with Social SecurityA 91-year-old member came to us confused as to how she had a negative balance and had overdrawn her account by a hefty amount.
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A Small Loan After a StormFaced with an unexpected need to replace appliances and electronics after their home was hit by a storm, our member knew who to turn to!
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The Importance of Financial Education & CounselingWe provide financial counseling to members and bring financial education into the community.
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Random Acts of Kindness InitiativeWe started a random acts of kindness initiative. Our employees in ten Wisconsin counties dream up and carry out ideas.
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Getting a Member Back on Track Every Week for a DecadeAn 81 year-old, illiterate member previously used payday lenders and didn’t know how much he owed, to whom, and at what interest rate.
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A Loan Based on Trust & FaithWhen one member hit rock bottom over twenty-five years ago he lost everything–including his business and finances.
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.

