[The following is a paid advertisement.]

When you visit a credit union, you will see firsthand what makes our model fundamentally different from traditional banks. As Audrey Holocker, Branch Manager at Financial Plus Credit Union in Mendota, IL, often explains to new members, “I don’t know if you know the difference between a credit union and a bank…” — but that difference has a real impact.

Banks operate with paid boards and profit-driven goals. Credit unions do not. “Credit unions are nonprofit. We’re here to serve you,” Audrey explains. When someone joins, they’re not just opening an account — “you become an owner of the credit union, and this is part of you.”

That ownership structure means every dollar earned is reinvested into member value: lower loan rates, higher returns on savings, and fewer fees. As Audrey states, “What we make, we put back into the credit union to save you money.”

This model supports financial stability, expands access to fair credit, and strengthens local economies. It’s why so many credit union employees like Audrey feel deeply connected to this mission. “I’m part of the movement… and I’m very proud to be a credit union member and employee.”

Learn more at https://betterforillinois.org/

Paid for by Illinois Credit Union League.