What Does It Mean to Be Part of a Co-op?
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October 28, 2026
Being part of a co-op comes down to one simple idea: the people who use the credit union are the people who own it. You want a financial home that's on your side, and at Co-op Credit Union, that's how it's built. As a member, you have a stake in the organization and a voice in how it's run. October is National Co-op Month, making it a great time to consider what being a co-op member means for you and the communities you call home.
What Is National Co-op Month?
National Co-op Month celebrates businesses owned by the people they serve, a tradition that dates back to 1964, when the U.S. Department of Agriculture first declared it. Since credit unions are financial cooperatives, the spotlight this October isn't really on the credit union. It's on you and every member who owns a piece of it.
What Does a Member-Owned Credit Union Mean for You?
A member-owned credit union answers to you. The day you open an account at Co-op Credit Union, you're not just opening an account. You're stepping into ownership. That ownership is why Co-op Credit Union puts its energy into giving value back to you rather than to shareholders: competitive rates, lower fees, and service that feels personal. That's the heart of the credit union difference.
Your voice matters here. The Annual Meeting is where ownership comes to life. It's your chance to hear how your credit union is performing, look over the financial information, learn about goals for the future, and help elect the Board of Directors and officers. Each member who takes part helps keep the credit union accountable to the people who own it: you.
What Is Being Part of a Co-op All About?
Ownership shows up in the community, too. Here's what that has looked like this year.
- In February, the Co-op Credit Union team gathered in the lobby with foam fingers and "GO HAWKS" and "State Bound" signs to wish the Montevideo Gold Dusters dance team good luck at the State Dance Competition.
- In March, the team brought its Bite of Reality financial literacy simulation to students at Yellow Medicine East Schools. Co-op Credit Union also brought Bite of Reality to Benson and MACCRAY schools, and Montevideo students are up next in November.
- From July 1 to August 31, the Back-to-School Supply Drive collected school supplies to help local students start the year ready to succeed. Sprouts youth members who donated earned an entry into a drawing, so even the youngest member-owners got to pitch in.
- This October, for CU Kind Day, branches collected hats, gloves, warm socks, coats, snow pants, snow boots, and hand warmers for local individuals and families in need. The team also delivered goodie bags and donations to the local fire department as a thank-you to the volunteer firefighters who keep the community safe.
None of it is about an account balance. It's about showing up for the people and places members call home.
How Can You Be Part of It?
Joining is simple:
- Become a member. Visit the membership page or stop by a branch in Montevideo, Benson, Canby, or Willmar.
- Choose what fits your life. Members have access to a full range of financial services, from savings and checking to youth accounts and loans.
- Use your voice. Attend the Annual Meeting and help elect the Board of Directors.
Membership means owning something local alongside your neighbors. Ready to be part of it? Become a member today or find a branch near you. Happy National Co-op Month!