Credit Unions have existed in Canada for over 100 years, the most local being Kawartha Credit Union. The healthiest financial situations include using an institution that offers the highest interest rate and lowest fees. The below link outlines 10 reasons that a Credit Union is an ideal choice.
Source: http://www.thestar.com/business/personal_finance/spending_saving/2010/11/08/10_reasons_why_credit_unions_are_worth_a_look.html