Credit unions and their members will celebrate International Credit Union Day on Oct. 19, and Gov. Nathan Deal has proclaimed it Credit Union Day in Georgia as well.

The proclamation reads, in part, “Credit unions are not-for-profit financial cooperatives founded by dedicated people who work together towards economic advancement. By creating access to reliable financial services, credit union members help others afford the demands and joys of life.”

Since 1948, International Credit Union Day has been celebrated annually on the third Thursday of October. Each year, the international event affords the opportunity to remember credit unions’ proud history and promote awareness of and support for the credit union difference. This year's theme – Dreams Thrive Here - celebrates the important economic and social contributions credit unions make to help their members afford life.

“Credit unions exist to serve their members, providing a safe place to save money, access affordable loans and get trusted advice from partners they can rely on,” said Terry Hardy, Chairman of the Board of Georgia Credit Union Affiliates, the state trade association for credit unions. “Credit unions are recognized as a force for positive economic and social change and have provided significant value here in our state and around the world. We are proud of the way we stand with our members to help them thrive, and that’s what we celebrate on Credit Union Day.”