Wisconsin credit union members spent almost $1 billion less thannon-members as they weathered the impact of the Great Recession,according to the Wisconsin Credit Union League.

The savings came in more competitive rates for savings and loansas well as lower fees for different financial services, the leaguereported in its 2012-13 Scorecard report, which tracked the savingsfrom 2007.

The report detailed Wisconsin credit union's efforts atfinancial education through 100 branches in schools that the leaguesaid saved students $3 million and provided practical business andpersonal financial management experience.

Credit unions also operate 40% of the state's branches inlower-income areas where it said they provided $44 million insavings for lower income consumers, noting for example that most ofthe state's credit unions still offer free checking.

Credit unions have also increased their lending to Wisconsin small business owners by 55% since 2007, helping tofill the gap left when other financial institutions retreated fromthat market.

“Credit unions are united for good,” said Brett Thompson, CEO of the Wisconsin Credit Union League. “TheScorecard provides a clear picture of how credit unions buildfinancially strong, self-sufficient families, business andcommunities in Wisconsin.”