It’s a Wonderful…Credit Union?

During the holiday season you may have many traditions and for a lot of us, watching a special movie with the family is a beloved tradition. One movie that is universally enjoyed is the 1946 film, “It’s a Wonderful Life”. After watching this classic, you walk away with a warm and fuzzy feeling but also learning many lessons along the way. And if you are currently a member of a credit union, certain parts of the movie may stand out more than others.

The main character is George Bailey who grew up in Bedford Falls, NY. His father owned a financial institution and a common theme throughout the movie is that this institution focuses on helping the community and supporting them through tough times, such as the Great Depression. Through the movie you may be thinking about how familiar some of the actions they take are, neighbors helping neighbors and giving a hand up when needed. It sounds very similar to what a credit union does and the culture that credit unions, like Prospera, have.

Now, in “It’s a Wonderful Life”, George Bailey runs a Savings and Loan business. It’s not a credit union, but it has some of the same attributes. One of the main similarities is that both saving and loans businesses and credit unions have members and the members are the heart of the business. Savings and loans businesses typically have a larger focus on loans and mortgages but the goal is the same as a credit union, to encourage members to save, invest and lead them to financial prosperity. There is a quote in the movie from George Bailey’s father (who started the business), he says:

“I feel that in a small way we are doing something important: satisfying a fundamental urge. It’s deep in the race for a man to want his own roof and walls and fireplace, and we’re helping him get these things in our shabby little office.”

Just like the movie, Prospera wants everyone to succeed and reach their goals and live a wonderful life. This holiday season, and all year long, we are here to help guide you through all of your life stages and get you on the path to prosperity!

If you have any questions or want to set up a time to meet with a financial representative please visit our website.