Some 123 million credit union members around the world will celebrate International Credit Union Day on Thursday, October 20, 2005. As they do, they will celebrate the unique service their credit unions provide and the many ways their families and communities have benefited from the credit union difference.

Credit unions are for everyone, but the law places some limits on the people they may serve. A credit union's charter defines its "field of membership," which could be an employer, church, school, or community. Anyone working for an employer that sponsors a credit union is eligible to join that credit union. Here's how to find a credit union to join:

" Ask your boss. Your company may sponsor a credit union or may be a sponsor group that has access to a credit union. Many employers will directly deposit your paycheck to the credit union.

" Poll your family. Does your spouse's employer sponsor a credit union? Most credit unions invite family members to join. Each credit union, however, may define "family" differently. At some, only your immediate family members are eligible. At other credit unions, family may include extended family members, such as grandparents, cousins, uncles, and aunts.

" Quiz the neighbors. Some credit unions have a "community" field of membership, serving a region defined by geography rather than by employment or some other association. Ask friends in the community if they know of a credit union you may join.

" Read the yellow pages. Some credit unions rarely advertise, so you might not know about them unless you look them up. A yellow pages display ad may state a credit union's field of membership. If not, at least you'll know what number to call to ask about membership eligibility.

" Check online at www.CUSF.org for Credit Unions in South Florida.

" Call the Credit Union National Association at 800-358-5710. You'll hear an electronic message that includes the name and telephone number of a person in your state who can help you find a credit union.