Ascentra Credit Union is a not-for-profit financial cooperative founded in 1950, serving Iowa and Illinois communities. It offers services like loans, savings accounts, credit cards, and digital banking tools[1][3][4]. Ascentra's target audience includes local residents seeking community-focused financial services. Its unique selling proposition is the "People Helping People" philosophy, where profits are returned to members through lower fees and better rates, rather than going to shareholders[3][5]. This approach emphasizes community involvement and member benefits over corporate profits.