At Cobalt Credit Union (CobaltCU.com), community impact is not a seasonal initiative. It is a year-round commitment that reflects our mission, our values, and the belief that strong communities are built through care and partnership. As we look back on the past year, our efforts have expanded across eastern Nebraska and western Iowa, supporting families, nonprofits and members during moments that mattered.
In the 2025 fiscal year, Cobalt approved 86 sponsorships totaling more than $191,000, uplifting local organizations focused on education, family stability, youth development, and community well being. Through the SAC Foundation, an additional $53,700 was invested from July 2024 through June 2025, reinforcing our dedication to causes that strengthen the military community, support veterans and address critical local needs.
One of the most meaningful examples of this work came through our support of Air Force veteran Ron Hernandez, founder of Moving Veterans Forward. After helping more than 3,400 veterans secure stable housing, Ron found himself facing the possible loss of his own home while battling stage 4 pancreatic cancer. When we learned of his situation, Cobalt and the SAC Foundation stepped in with a $25,000 donation to help Ron and his family remain in their home.
Our commitment to standing with members in times of uncertainty continued through the launch of our Furlough Relief Loan and Loan Assistance Program during the federal government shutdown. With zero percent APR for 90 days, no fees, and fast access to funds, the program was created to offer stability and compassion for furloughed federal employees during a period of financial strain. In these moments, our priority remains the same, to provide both practical solutions and genuine support.
As we head into the holiday season, the giving continues with our annual Holiday Helping Hands campaign. Last year, we donated $24,000 to 24 nonprofits across our region, helping organizations that provide food assistance, housing support, financial literacy programs, youth services, and more. This year, we are increasing our support to $50,000 for 25 nonprofits as part of our fifth annual campaign. Holiday Helping Hands has become a tradition we are proud of, but more importantly, it highlights the heart of who we are, neighbors helping neighbors.
This focus on year-round service is reflected in the leadership of our President and CEO, Robin Larsen, who shared:
“Helping hands matter most when someone is facing their hardest moments. Whether it is a veteran like Ron or a nonprofit meeting urgent community needs, our purpose is the same. When our neighbors need support, we show up, together. That is the heart of who we are at Cobalt.”
Her words echo what drives our work every day. While the holiday season is a time of joy and generosity, our commitment to service does not end on December 31. It continues through every sponsorship, every foundation grant, every member assisted in a crisis, and every organization we help uplift.
As we look forward to the year ahead, Cobalt will continue to support the people and organizations that make our communities stronger. Because giving back is not a moment. It is our mission, and it is a responsibility we are honored to carry all year long.