International Credit Union Day (ICU Day) is celebrated on the third Thursday in October annually by credit unions worldwide since 1948. The day is recognized as one to raise awareness about what it means for members around the world to have a credit union as their financial partner and to reflect on the history, achievements and work credit unions continue to do.

Traditionally, International Credit Union Day in Grenada is celebrated with a rally, march pass and other festivities by the credit unions as we come together in the spirit of cooperation among cooperatives. This year, considering the global pandemic, Ariza commemorated the day with an open house at all its branches along with a fun day at the Queen Elizabeth Home for Children in Tempe, St. George. The celebration was extended on Saturday October 17^th with a subsequent fun day at the Belair Home in Calliste, St. George.

Members transacting at all Ariza branches on the day were treated with goodies to mark the special occasion. After the open house, a small team quickly made their way to the Queen Elizabeth Home for Children to complete preparations for the fun day.

The Pavilion at the Queen Elizabeth Home was transformed with various cartoon character cut outs such as Elsa, PJ Masks, Elmo, and others and life size mascots – SpongeBob, Minion, etc. paid a visit to entertain and play with the children. The team of Ariza staff spent the rest of the evening playing traditional games like moral and hopscotch with the kids. They also enjoyed horseback rides, face painting and spent time in the bouncing castle. Additionally, every child was treated to ice-cream, fruits salads, water to keep them hydrated and an individually packaged gift bag carefully put together based on age and gender. The various events were repeated on Saturday for the residents at the Belair Home in Calliste.

It was important for Ariza to commemorate the day differently this year as the Credit Union is always looking for meaningful ways to contribute to its communities. Moreover, amid the global pandemic the theme “Inspiring Hope for a Global Community” held great significance as it is now more important to spread hope, warmth, cheer and serve as a reminder that despite the current conditions there is hope for a better future.

To learn more about how Ariza celebrated International Credit Union Day this year, visit the Credit Union’s Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube pages.