This paper presents a discussion of voting and participation models in credit unions. It addresses future possibilities and perspectives for implementing governance mechanisms that increase member and community participation. The data are drawn from field research in the city of Santa Cruz do Sul (RS) and from interviews with co-operative leaders and staff at the Sicredi Vale do Rio Pardo Credit co-operative. Other sources are documents available at the co-operative's headquarters and research on the subject. This research contributes to expanding knowledge about governance in credit unions and voting models.