“Heights of Great Men reached and kept were not attained by sudden flight but they while their companions slept were toiling upwards through the night.” This quote aptly describes the rise of the St. Kitts Co-operative Credit Union Limited from the backroom of an office on Baker’s Corner where one of our founding members, the proprietor of the Eastern Benevolent Society Mr. Lloyd Procope, freely accommodated the office. The organization first opened its doors in 1982 as the Basseterre Co-operative Credit Union with only 15 members and a volunteer Peace Corp officer to provide financial services. Two years lately, it was renamed the St. Kitts Co-operative Credit Union.

Needing more space as the Credit Union experienced a growth spurt, the institution then moved upstairs the Gumbs and Isles Liquor Store on Fort Street and then to the second floor office of Omax Gardner’s Building on New Street. A rental arrangement lasted for over last ten years as the Credit Union moved from one space to another in that building.

After purchasing the building in September 12 1996, a plan of renovation was then undertaken to accommodate the ever-increasing membership as this building was situated right in the heart of the Capital of Basseterre and allowed little room for expansion. Although, the renovation provided more space, it could not keep up with the rapid growth pace therefore the decision was taken to acquire additional space. Amongst the viable options was the Bladen Commercial Development, which was fast becoming a financial haven for similar type institutions.

The institution has now grown to include a spacious and modern Headquarters and a branch that offers additional services that are unique to the Credit Union, an asset base of over 38 million EC Dollars and near 30 full time staff members, who are fully committed to the Credit Union movement’s growth within the Federation.

The St. Kitts Co-operative Credit Union has been perceived as the “poor man’s bank” as Kittitians and residents have grown quite comfortable in using the many services offered while feeling a part of the Credit Union family. Because it is a small community, the emphasis on service is more pronounced; therefore the Credit Union continues to serve effectively, efficiently, and seemingly.

The Institution’s rapid growth as well as its determination to provide quality service will undoubtedly assist in its quest to contribute meaningfully to the society it serves, the wider Caribbean, and the World. This year as we celebrate our 25th Anniversary we are cognizant of the many challenges facing our institution which include but are not limited to the changing in dynamics of Credit Union’s mode of operations, the implementation of CSME (Caribbean Single Market Economy); increasing cost of fuel and the quest to explore new energy sources, WTO mandates, and the rise in crime and violence.

We are by no means daunted. We are confident that together we can and will find innovative means of rising above any obstacle. The Credit Unions operating principles that were formed on the philosophy of cooperation and the core values of equality, equity, and mutual self help – have stood the test of time. After twenty five years (25) years of embracing the concept of human development and that of common people working together to ensure a better life for all, we are now ready to embrace the challenge of the future.

SKCCU, we are proud to have shared a part of your proud history. Long may you live!