MADISON, Wis. – Credit unions around the world are ramping up for International Credit Union Day on October 21. Celebrated for some 56 years, ICU Day is generally an opportunity for credit unions to join forces and show their unique community spirit. From grand openings and fundraisers to special ICU Day week-long promotions, credit unions are playing up the credit union difference-in keeping with this year's theme of Credit Unions: Dream.Belong.Achieve. Selected earlier this year via an online poll on the World Council of Credit Unions' Web site, the theme was designed to demonstrate the unique role credit unions play in potential and existing members' lives. As is standard, President George W. Bush has sent ICU Day greetings to credit unions. "Credit unions play an important role in expanding opportunities for men and women around the world and expanding economic prosperity," said Bush in a letter. "These institutions provide valuable financial security and give members peace of mind. I commend the dedicated service of credit union employees and all those who are raising awareness about the importance of sound money management." First Lady Laura Bush joined the president in extending the greeting. Earlier this year, both Bush and Democratic presidential candidate Sen. John Kerry (D-Mass.) sent letters to CUNA stating that they favor credit unions' current tax status.