Community Series: Part 1

When you choose a financial institution, you’re not just selecting a place to manage your checking account or deposit your paycheck; you’re choosing what your money supports. At a credit union, your dollars do more than sit in an account. They help strengthen your community, support local families, and fuel the growth of nearby businesses.
How does a credit union keep money local? Here’s how keeping your money with a credit union keeps your community strong.
Credit Unions Are Local by Design
Unlike big national banks, credit unions are member-owned financial institutions, meaning they operate for the benefit of the people who use them rather than external shareholders. As a result, they’re rooted in the communities they serve, and decisions aren’t driven by distant corporate offices. Instead, they’re made locally, with members’ needs at the center. Your deposits are reinvested through local lending, supporting mortgages, auto loans, and small business financing for people and organizations in your community. So the money stays right here, where it can make a real difference.
Profits Go Back to You and Your Community
Credit unions are not-for-profit organizations. When we make earnings, we don’t distribute them to shareholders. We reinvest them:
- Lower Fees
- Better interest rates
- Enhanced services
- Community programs, sponsorships, and charitable giving
Every dollar saved or earned goes back to our members and the neighborhoods we call home.
Supporting Local Businesses and Growth
Local businesses rely on accessible, affordable financial services to grow. By keeping your money within the credit union system, you’re helping create opportunities for your own community—whether that’s a new café down the street, a contractor expanding their team, or a family-owned shop continuing into the next generation.
Your deposits directly help fund these efforts through small business loans and community partnerships.
Personalized Service You Can Trust
Because we know our members personally, we understand the challenges and goals unique to our region.
Whether it’s navigating the local housing market, planning for college, or supporting small-town entrepreneurs, we’re here with guidance grounded in firsthand knowledge—not generic nationwide trends.
At a credit union, you’re not just an account number. You’re an owner, a neighbor, and a partner in building a thriving community.
Your Money Makes a Difference—Right Here at Home
Choosing a credit union isn’t just a financial decision, it’s a community investment. When your money stays local, it supports the people, places, and values that matter most.
If you’d like to learn more about how credit unions strengthen our local communities—or want help choosing financial solutions that fit your needs—we’re here for you.
Visit IC Credit Union ‐ Get in Touch to connect with us today.