NWFCU Foundation | 2026 Summer Newsletter

Dear Foundation Friend,

Summer is in full swing, and so is the impact of the NWFCU Foundation! We’re excited to share several milestones and inspiring stories in this edition of our newsletter. Inside, you'll learn about the Foundation's selection as a Spur Local 2026 Honoree, a prestigious recognition of our work empowering youth throughout the region. You'll also discover how you can help under-resourced students start the school year on the right foot with a new pair of shoes and socks through our Step Into Success campaign, and read about our latest N.E.E.D.S. Project success story—bringing the total number of student-led dreams funded this year to 14.

If you haven't already, be sure to visit the Foundation's new website, which is filled with mission moments and stories of impact, and explore our 2025 Impact Report showcasing the lives being changed through your support. None of this would be possible without you—our Northwest employees, donors, volunteers, and community partners.

Thank you for helping us create opportunities for youth to thrive. Sending our sincere gratitude and wishing you a wonderful summer!

With gratitude,

Taralyn 

Taralyn Tharp Kohler
VP Foundation Director 

The Northwest Federal Credit Union Foundation has been selected for Spur Local's 2026 Class of Honorees—formerly known as the Catalogue for Philanthropy—one of the most prestigious recognitions a community-based nonprofit in the greater Washington region can receive. This distinction is a powerful validation of the impact we are making in the lives of local youth and families.

As a Spur Local Honoree, the Foundation will gain increased visibility and credibility throughout the DC, Maryland, and Virginia region, helping introduce our mission to new donors and supporters.

The recognition serves as an independent endorsement of our impact, stewardship, and commitment to empowering youth through scholarships, outreach drives, financial education, career readiness initiatives, and The N.E.E.D.S. Project.

We are incredibly grateful to our donors, volunteers, partners, and employees who make this work possible.

It's hard to focus on learning when you are worried about the condition of your shoes. It's even harder to participate in gym class, recess, and after-school activities when those shoes no longer fit or provide proper support.

That’s why the NWFCU Foundation, with generous support from our sponsor Konica Minolta, is proud to launch our annual Step Into Success Outreach Drive.

Through this program, we provide brand-new athletic shoes and socks to under-resourced students in need, helping them start the school year with confidence, dignity, and the tools they need to succeed.

Together, let's help children step confidently into the new school year! Your contribution will have a direct impact, as 100% of donations go towards fulfilling our mission.

"It Makes Me Feel Like I’m Visible”: Stars on Stage Helps Students Find Their Voice

This summer, the Foundation celebrated the impact of Stars on Stage, a program that gave elementary students in Herndon and Reston the opportunity to discover their voices through live theater.

By the end of the 12-week program, students reported dramatic increases in confidence, communication, and school engagement, with one student sharing, "It makes me feel like I'm visible." That's the lasting impact the N.E.E.D.S. Project strives to create. Through this program, more than 2,000 students experienced live theater—many for the very first time. Read the full story here.  

This fall, we're gearing up to fund even more innovative, student-centered projects through the N.E.E.D.S. Project. If you have an idea that could make a meaningful difference for students, we'd love to hear it. Click here to learn more and apply.

The cast from Clearview Elementary School.

The Northwest Federal Credit Union Foundation empowers youth to achieve their goals by supporting their health, well-being, and education. 

Youth: Our Purpose

Northwest Federal Credit Union Foundation

220 Spring Street, Suite 120

Herndon, VA 20170

(703) 234-4412 | Foundation Website | foundation@nwfcu.org