The History of America's Credit Unions
Jeanne D’Arc Credit Union was founded in 1912 as a small cooperative credit society, initially created by and for the Franco-American community in Lowell, Massachusetts. Made up of immigrants and mill workers, the community saw an opportunity to utilize their social and cultural networks to create a new type of financial institution.
History
A group of 10 local clergy, business, and community members became the first officers and directors of Jeanne D’Arc Credit Union in 1911. It was officially established in 1912, operating out of St. Jean Baptiste Church.
Throughout the years, Jeanne D’Arc grew from its roots as a small financial cooperative with part-time operations and volunteers in Lowell’s “little Canada”, into the modern, flourishing credit union that serves thousands of people in Lowell and the neighboring cities and communities.
The same dedication that fueled Desjardins and Jeanne D’Arc’s founding members in the early 20th century is the same dedication that fuels Jeanne D’Arc presently, having evolved to meet today’s economic, financial, and cultural standards. We continue to serve the legacy, mission, and vision of our founders, striving every day to help people from within our communities of all walks of life make smart financial choices.
