Social Impact Awards

​DakCU recognizes credit unions and individuals for contributions that made a significant impact in improving lives.

​The Dakota Credit Union Association (DakCU) is pleased to announce this year’s winners of the Social Impact Awards for contributions that have made a significant impact in building stronger communities and improving lives. The recipients were formally recognized during the DakCU Awards Banquet that was recently held at The Box in Box Elder, South Dakota.
 
Credit unions nominated for this award must have consistently demonstrated qualities of compassion and service through support of organizations, volunteer activities, and community outreach efforts. Congratulations to:
 
North Dakota State Credit Union Winner:
Town and Country Credit Union, Minot, ND
This credit union demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to community impact in 2025 through significant financial contributions, employee volunteerism, financial education, and collaborative partnerships across North Dakota. Employees contributed more than 4,700 volunteer hours throughout the year, including a CU Kind Day that engaged 124 employees serving 15 nonprofit organizations. Through support for organizations such as the YMCA, Great Plains Food Bank, Sanford’s Micropreemie Unit, and United Way, along with scholarships, small business grants, youth financial education, and assistance programs for furloughed federal employees, the credit union demonstrated a strong commitment to improving lives and strengthening communities across the state.

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​North Dakota State Individual Winner:
Dustin Bitz, Railway Credit Union, Mandan, ND
Bitz demonstrated an outstanding commitment to financial education and community impact through his outreach efforts with Railway Credit Union. In 2025, he personally educated more than 1,000 individuals, including students, veterans, military members, and community residents across North Dakota. Through partnerships with schools and community organizations, he dedicated hundreds of volunteer hours to promoting financial literacy, fraud prevention, and identity theft awareness. His passion for helping others build stronger financial futures reflects his deep commitment to serving members and supporting their financial well-being.

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​South Dakota State Credit Union Winner:
Northern Hills Federal Credit Union, Sturgis, SD
For more than 20 years, Northern Hills Federal Credit Union (NHFCU) has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to community through its partnership with Meals on Wheels in Sturgis, South Dakota. Each week, employees dedicate their time to delivering meals, companionship, and wellness checks to elderly and homebound residents, contributing more than 200 volunteer hours annually. Beyond meal delivery, the program provides meaningful connection and reassurance to some of the community’s most vulnerable individuals. Through consistent volunteerism and compassionate service, NHFCU continues to make a meaningful impact in the communities it serves.

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​​South Dakota State Individual Winner:
Haley Derr, Black Hills Federal Credit Union, Rapid City, SD
Derr demonstrated an exceptional commitment to supporting veterans and their families through the Sergeant Colton Levi Derr Foundation, founded in memory of his brother, Sergeant Colton Levi Derr. Through leadership, advocacy, and outreach efforts, the foundation has provided support for veterans facing PTSD, mental health challenges, and financial hardship through emergency assistance, peer support, therapy programs, and crisis resources. Derr’s compassion and dedication have made a meaningful and lasting impact on veterans and families throughout the region.

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