Monasterevan Credit Union Ltd celebrates 50 years of community service
Monasterevin Credit Union celebrating 50 Years Brenden Jenkins President IL CU and Mary Ryan Chairperson Monasterevan with members Photos Jimmy Fullam
This year marks a Golden Milestone for Monasterevan Credit Union Ltd as it celebrates 50 years of service, supporting and community spirit. Since its founding in 1975, the credit union has grown from humble beginnings into a trusted financial partner for generations of local families.
The idea of a credit union was simple but powerful - people pooling their resources to support one another. In the early 1970’s, when access to credit was limited and banks were less approachable, a group of dedicated volunteers in Monasterevan came together to establish a community-owned institution that would serve local needs. What started in modest premises with just a handful of members quickly took root, driven by the principles of self-help, mutual support, and financial inclusion.
In those early years, members saved small amounts, enabling loans for neighbours who needed help with everyday costs – whether it was paying for school uniforms, a family celebration, or essential household repairs. Over time, the Credit Union became a lifeline, offering affordable credit when it mattered most. More importantly, it fostered a sense of belonging and pride in the community.
By the 1980s and 1990s, Monasterevan Credit Union Ltd had expanded significantly, both in membership and services. The organisation introduced new savings schemes, flexible loan options, and financial education initiatives. Volunteers played an essential role, dedicating countless hours to ensuring that the Credit Union remained true to its founding ethos. Unlike commercial banks, the focus was never on profit, but on people. Every decision was made with the members’ best interests at heart.
As times changed, so too did the Credit Union. The introduction of modern banking systems, online access, and mobile services has made it easier than ever for members to manage their finances. Yet, despite this progress, Monasterevan Credit Union Ltd has retained its personal touch. The friendly faces behind the counter remain a constant reminder that this is an organisation built on community trust.
Today, with thousands of members and decades of success behind it, Monasterevan Credit Union Ltd stands as a testament to what can be achieved when people work together. The 50th Anniversary is not just a celebration of the past, but also a commitment to the future. Plans are in place to continue expanding services, supporting local initiatives, and ensuring that the next generation can benefit from the same values that guided its founders half a century ago.
As Monasterevan Credit Union Ltd reflects on 50 years, the message is clear: this is more than a financial institution – it is a cornerstone of the community, built by the people, for the people, and dedicated to serving for many years to come.
The first AGM aavings were £2,838 Irish pounds and loans were £2,060 Irish pounds. Today, the savings are over €18m and loans are over €10m This is all money saved by members in the community, and loaned back to the members of the community.
To celebrate our 50 Anniversary Monasterevan Credit Union Ltd have set aside a Community Fund where voluntary groups or committees can apply for funding for various projects (T&C’s apply) for an application form for this funding please contact 045 525838 for details or email info@monasterevancu.ie (this is a one time fund and has a cap when it is gone it is gone) We also are funding a Defibrillator which will be installed at the Credit Union Offices in the next week.
The credit union would like to acknowledge the work and commitment of our deceased directors and members that helped in the growth of Monasterevan Credit Union Ltd to where it is today in 2025.
