These are ways of protecting your credit rating. Every time you make a late payment, it is logged in your credit report which can hinder your ability to take out a loan.
Joining a credit union may be a way to boost your credit score when you are having a hard time getting credit. These credit unions can probably give you better credit options in the long run.
Although they mean a lot to you, these statements are often set aside when lenders go over your credit history. The most it will do is draw more attention to the bad aspects of the report.
Paying off what is due on your unpaid bills is a good way to repair your credit. Credit counseling can also be a great help.
If your credit is poor, take the first step to repairing it by closing out the majority of your cards, leaving yourself just one to use. You will want to either transfer your balances onto the one remaining card or set up payment arrangements, but close the account to new charges. It will be easier for you to make payments on a single credit card account, as opposed to several.
You should devise a plan to get your debts paid off. They will likely still appear on the credit bureau report but having them marked as paid is a lot better than having them appear as outstanding balances.
Following the advice given here will go a long way towards building the credit score that you want. The most important thing is to be consistent with the process and make sure that you stay on top of your obligations. Stop worrying and start repairing your credit score now!