ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.–The Nusenda Foundation has announced a milestone moment: its 10-year anniversary and the distribution of $1 million in Community Rewards grants to 108 nonprofit organizations dedicated to creating positive change across New Mexico and West Texas.
Since its inception in 2015, the Nusenda Foundation said it has invested more than $5.4 million in communities to over 800 nonprofit organizations that address critical needs and foster opportunities for growth in their communities. This year’s record-breaking grant distribution underscores the Foundation’s unwavering commitment to building stronger, healthier communities.
“Celebrating 10 years of the Nusenda Foundation and reaching $1 million in Community Rewards grants is a proud moment for all of us,” Sara Keller, chief community engagement officer at Nusenda Credit Union and executive director of Nusenda Foundation, said in a statement. “This milestone reflects our unwavering commitment to being good stewards of our members’ resources. Through the dedication of our volunteer board, the passion of our employees, and the generosity of Nusenda’s members, we’ve built lasting relationships with nonprofits and community partners who share our vision, helping strengthen lives across New Mexico and West Texas.”
“Nusenda has been serving our communities for nearly 90 years, and the Foundation’s 10-year anniversary marks an incredible moment in that legacy,” Michelle Dearholt, president and CEO of Nusenda Credit Union, said in a statement. “This year’s $1 million in Community Rewards grants demonstrates the impact we can make together. We’re proud to support organizations driving meaningful change in our communities, and we look forward to the next decade of fostering opportunities and improving lives across New Mexico and West Texas.”
The Community Rewards program is a unique collaboration between Nusenda Credit Union and its member-owners. Members who make ten or more signature-based transactions each month using their Nusenda Visa debit cards earn cash back while also contributing to the grant program. Members can direct their contributions geographically and choose to support one of five focus areas: education, healthcare, environment and wildlife, the arts, and community service. Funds are then distributed through grants that empower local nonprofits addressing critical needs.
The Nusenda Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Nusenda Credit Union, committed to creating stronger communities through strategic investments, partnerships, and programs that improve lives across New Mexico and West Texas. In 2024, the Foundation awarded $700,000 to 72 organizations.
