Credit unions across the world are celebrating their history today, “from Kentucky to Kenya, Alberta to Azerbaijan” as the World Council of Credit Unions puts it.

CUNA even has has a running list of events that are happening, from cycle rides in the UK to educational programs in Ghana and Liberia to shred days and serving hot dogs, burgers and Skittles at CUs across the US. One CU is even holding a pig roast .

Google it, and you can find media stories from Jamaica and Guam to President Kennedy’s message marking ICU Day in 1961.

All because of a simple idea back in the mid 19th century: that people could pool resources and make loans to each other.

Makes you feel all warm and fuzzy, doesn’t it?