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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Making an ExceptionA younger member with a good job and good payback history was stuck in a payday loan cycle and had medical debt that she could not afford.
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“The First Time I’ve Felt Like I have a Family Since I Left Home.”A member originally from the Dominican Republic came in wanting to buy his own car, as he lives far from his work and knew it would be a very cold walk in the winter.
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Offering Practical & Non-Judgemental AdviceBefore Avestar offers an opportunity for a loan, we offer a free Credit Score Analysis (“CSA”).
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Members are Not Just a NumberDuring the financial crisis several years ago, Avestar worked very hard with their members to modify their mortgage loans in response to job loss and subsequent loss of income.
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Skits for Financial LIteracyWe educate members through skits written and performed by our staff at our annual meeting.
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Thinking of Our Members’ Four-Legged FriendsWe just had a member come in to the Brillion Branch with an unopened box of dog treats.
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.

