Herndon, Va. – December 12, 2025 – The Northwest Federal Credit Union (Northwest) Foundation, the charitable arm of the credit union, proudly celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2025. This milestone year was marked by reflection, celebration, and a renewed commitment to those it serves across the D.C. region.

When the Foundation was launched 20 years ago, it was born out of Northwest’s vision to be more than a financial services organization, and to leave a lasting impact on its community. What began as a desire to help has grown into a movement of members, employees, donors, and partners who have turned generosity into opportunity for thousands of young people.

“This anniversary is really about celebrating the students and families whose paths look a little brighter because of our efforts over the years,” said Taralyn Kohler, VP and Director of the Foundation. “Whether it was through a scholarship, a warm coat, or a mentor, each act of service has helped move a young person closer to a future filled with possibility.”

Over the past two decades, the Foundation has awarded $2.4 million in scholarships to 474 students, provided financial education to more than 36,000 young people, and mentored hundreds of students through partnerships with local schools. It has continually rallied the community through more than 150 outreach drives, collecting food, hygiene items, coats, shoes, and more to meet essential needs. In total, more than $4.5 million has been invested back into the DMV through these and other Northwest charitable initiatives.

To commemorate its 20th year, the Foundation introduced The N.E.E.D.S. Project (Nurturing Education, Experiences & Dreams for Students), a new initiative focused on meeting unmet needs in local schools. In its inaugural year, the Foundation proudly funded 20 projects, from supplying basics to children in need, to creating meaningful educational opportunities. At Sterling Middle School, for example, students lined the hallways to cheer as a book vending machine was unveiled, rewarding good attendance and positive behavior with tokens to “purchase” books of their very own.

“We wanted to make a difference in our local area and provide resources to those who needed it most, and we saw the creation of the NWFCU Foundation as a way to do that,” said Jeff Bentely, President & CEO of Northwest Federal Credit Union. “Looking back on the journey and all the milestones, I am immensely proud of all that we have accomplished together. This legacy did not happen by accident or in isolation — it was intentionally built by key leaders who took the first steps to make this possible, individuals who volunteered their time to serve the community, and all those who have supported our mission year after year.”

As the Foundation turns the page on its 20th year, its focus shifts from celebrating a milestone to building upon it. With continued support from members, donors, and community partners, the Foundation is committed to ensuring that the impact of its first two decades becomes the groundwork for the decades ahead.

 

About Northwest Federal Credit Union Foundation

The NWFCU Foundation was established in 2004 to promote and manage Northwest Federal Credit Union’s philanthropic activities. The mission of NWFCU Foundation is to empower young people to achieve their goals by helping them learn, excel and celebrate life and by supporting their health, well-being and education. The NWFCU Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization. Donations are tax deductible to the extent permissible by law for those who itemize deductions. For more information, visit www.nwfcufoundation.org

About Northwest Federal Credit Union

Northwest Federal Credit Union (Northwest) is a leading financial institution dedicated to providing a comprehensive range of banking and financial services to its over 280,000 members across the DMV area and beyond. Established in 1947 with a focus on personalized customer service, Northwest offers a variety of products, including savings and checking accounts, loans, mortgages, and investment options. As a member-owned, non-profit organization, Northwest not only strives to enhance the financial well-being of its members, but is also integrally involved with supporting the local community through various outreach initiatives and strategic partnerships. Northwest is the Official Credit Union of the Washington Commanders and naming rights sponsor for the team’s Northwest Stadium. For more information about Northwest Federal Credit Union, visit nwfcu.org. Federally insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Lender.