Peoples Powered by HFCU Announces $40,000 in Donations

ARavens • February 19, 2026

CHESTERTOWN, MD, February 19, 2026 — Peoples Powered by Hanscom Federal Credit Union and its charitable foundation today announced $40,000 in donations made to 20 nonprofit organizations, each receiving a $2,000 donation, during a welcome reception held at The Watershed Alley.

President and CEO Peter Rice and senior leadership met with local leaders, shared Hanscom’s vision for the region, and advanced the cooperative’s commitment behind the Peoples Powered by Hanscom name.

“At Hanscom, we believe strong communities are built through partnership and purpose,” said Rice. “This welcome reception is about listening, building relationships, and investing in the organizations that make a meaningful difference here on the Eastern Shore.”

Benefiting nonprofits represented top community priorities, including education, youth programs, food security, veteran support, housing support, and other local initiatives aimed to strengthen Eastern Shore communities.

“These organizations are doing vital and meaningful work every day,” said Rice. “We’re proud to support them today and in the years ahead as part of our growing presence in Maryland.” 

The evening concluded with a group photo featuring grant recipients, foundation representatives, and community leaders — underscoring Hanscom’s focus on collaboration and long-term community investment.

Donation Recipient Organizations

Hanscom and its charitable foundation awarded $2,000 donations to each of the following 20 nonprofit organizations in recognition of their work supporting veterans and military families, advancing education, and strengthening community-based programs throughout the Chestertown region:

  • Betterton American Legion Post 246
  • Busload of Books
  • Centreville American Legion Post 18
  • Chestertown RiverArts – Kidspot
  • Echo Hill Outdoor School
  • Easton American Legion Blake Blackston Post 77
  • Easton American Legion Talbot Post 70
  • Horizons of Kent and Queen Anne’s
  • Kent Community Food Pantry
  • Kent Cultural Alliance
  • Midshore Community Foundation
  • Millington VFW
  • Minary’s Dream Alliance
  • Open Doors Partners in Education
  • Rock Hall American Legion Post 228
  • Shelter Alliance
  • Shore Rivers
  • Sultana Education Foundation
  • Sumner Hall
  • US Colored Troops Memorial Fund

Together, these organizations reflect the Charitable Foundation’s commitment to supporting veterans, education, and community well-being across the region.

About Hanscom Federal Credit Union

Hanscom, with more than $2.1 billion in assets, 115,000+ members, 300+ employees, and 23 branches across Massachusetts, Maryland, and Virginia, is one of the region’s most trusted credit unions. Founded in 1953, the organization’s mission is to be the trusted advisor people turn to for unbiased financial guidance, and its vision is to help every member achieve financial wellness.

Guided by its core values — Members First, Integrity, Teamwork, Innovation, and Empathy — Hanscom offers a full suite of financial products and services, supported by thousands of shared branches and service center locations nationwide. Hanscom created WealthTrek, the world’s first financial questing experience, transforming financial education into an engaging, interactive journey. The credit union proudly supports its communities through the Hanscom Federal Credit Union Charitable Foundation, contributing more than $500,000 annually to causes supporting veterans, military families, students, and local organizations.


February 11, 2026
LITTLETON, Mass., Feb. 11, 2026 – Hanscom Federal Credit Union (HFCU) today announced the formation of its new Advisory Council, a distinguished group of veteran leaders, community advocates, educators, healthcare professionals, and innovation experts who will provide strategic insight to help guide the credit union’s continued evolution and member-first growth. The Advisory Council was created to bring together diverse perspectives and expertise to advise HFCU leadership on emerging trends, innovation, community impact, and the evolving needs of its members. The council’s formation reflects a deliberate step by HFCU to bring expertise into its strategic planning as the credit union expands its digital capabilities, financial education platforms, and long-term impact for members. “This is a proud moment for Hanscom Federal Credit Union and an important step in our future,” said Peter Rice, President and CEO of HFCU. “Our Advisory Council brings perspectives that will help us innovate responsibly, strengthen trust, and ensure we continue delivering meaningful value to our members. From first-of-its-kind experiences like WealthTrek to the thoughtful exploration of emerging technologies, including AI, this council will help guide our work.” The Advisory Council aligns with HFCU’s mission and core values of Members First, Integrity, Teamwork, Innovation, and Empathy. The council will provide non-binding guidance and insights to leadership and will meet regularly to share perspectives, provide feedback, and help shape initiatives that enhance financial wellness, education, and the overall member experience. The Advisory Council includes leaders with deep experience in veterans’ advocacy, public service, healthcare, education, and technology innovation. Advisory Council Members Corporal (ret.) Thomas J. “Tommy” Lyons, USMC Tommy Lyons is a U.S. Marine Corps Vietnam Veteran and a lifelong public servant. As Chairman, Tommy Lyons brings decades of leadership in veterans’ advocacy, housing, and public service. He previously served as Vice President of Government Affairs and Corporate Communications at MassHousing and as Boston’s Commissioner of Veterans’ Services. In November 2025, Lyons received the U.S. Department of the Navy’s highest civilian award for his 40+ years of distinguished public service and exceptional leadership in support of veterans, their families and the Marine Corps. Lyons is the founder of the South Boston Vietnam Memorial and the Semper Fidelis Society of Boston and continues to serve on numerous veterans-focused boards and advisory councils. LtCol (ret.) Michael Dunford, USMC A retired Marine Corps Reserve officer and veteran of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, Mike Dunford is a seasoned executive and leadership consultant. He previously served as Chief Human Resources Officer and Senior Vice President at Covidien and now advises organizations on leadership, talent, and workforce strategy while remaining deeply involved in veteran employment and support initiatives. He currently serves as President of the Board of Directors at the The Cape and Islands Veterans Outreach Center. Colonel (ret.) Daniel M. Arkins, Jr., U.S. Army Dan Arkins is a retired United States Army colonel with 33 years of enlisted and commissioned service, including deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. He currently serves on the Home Base Development Team supporting veterans and military families and brings deep experience in leadership, intelligence, and organizational strategy, along with a strong commitment to veteran advocacy and mentorship. Mike Lorenz, former Senior Airman, U.S. Air National Guard Mike Lorenz has spent more than 18 years in higher education administration and military and veteran support. A former Air National Guard member, he has dedicated his career to supporting military-connected students, families, and professionals while advancing inclusive practices within academic institutions. Dr. Mary Jean Hughes Dr. Mary Jean Hughes is an associate professor and academic fieldwork coordinator at Regis College with more than 25 years of experience in occupational therapy across clinical, educational, and leadership settings. Her work focuses on helping students succeed through accommodations, mentorship, and effective fieldwork placement, bringing a vital perspective on education, healthcare, and accessibility. Colonel (ret.) Cheryl Lussier Poppe, Massachusetts National Guard Cheryl Lussier Poppe is a retired colonel of the Massachusetts National Guard and a longtime leader in veterans’ services in the Commonwealth. She is Secretary of the Massachusetts Department of Veterans’ Services and brings decades of experience in public service, crisis leadership, and veteran care. David Jensen David Jensen is a strategic marketing and technology executive with more than 20 years of experience helping organizations innovate and build digital ecosystems. He currently serves as President of Regan Communications’ Digital Studio. With leadership roles across New England’s top marketing and communications agencies, Jensen brings a forward-looking perspective on digital strategy, technology, and customer experience. Looking Ahead The formation of the Advisory Council builds on HFCU’s momentum as an innovator in financial education and member experience. From WealthTrek, the world’s first immersive financial education experience inside a credit union branch, to continued investment in digital tools, data, and responsible AI exploration, HFCU is focused on evolving in ways that empower members and strengthen trust. Together, the Advisory Council and HFCU leadership will help ensure the credit union continues to evolve in ways that empower financial confidence, accessibility, and long-term well-being for members. About Hanscom HFCU Hanscom, with more than $2.1 billion in assets, 115,000+ members, 300+ employees, and 23 branches across Massachusetts, Maryland, and Virginia, is one of the region’s most trusted credit unions. Founded in 1953, the organization’s mission is to be the trusted advisor people turn to for unbiased financial guidance, and its vision is to help every member achieve financial wellness. Guided by its core values – Members First, Integrity, Teamwork, Innovation, and Empathy – Hanscom offers a full suite of financial products and services, supported by thousands of shared branches and service center locations nationwide. Hanscom created WealthTrek, the world’s first financial questing experience, transforming financial education into an interactive, game-like journey. The credit union proudly supports its communities through the Hanscom Federal Credit Union Charitable Foundation, contributing more than $500,000 annually to causes supporting veterans, military families, students, and local organizations. Learn more at www.hfcu.org.
January 29, 2026
LITTLETON, MA (January 29, 2026) – Hanscom Federal Credit Union is now accepting applications for its 2026 John F. Condon Memorial Scholarship program , continuing its commitment to supporting education and investing in the next generation of leaders. Applications will be accepted through Friday, March 13, 2026 . Through the program, HFCU will award up to five $1,500 college scholarships to graduating high school seniors, including gap-year graduates, who demonstrate academic achievement, leadership, and a commitment to service in their schools and communities. The John F. Condon Memorial Scholarship honors the legacy of John F. Condon, a former Hanscom FCU board member and retired Air Force Chief Master Sergeant. Condon was a dedicated advocate for education and a role model in both military and civilian life. “Education plays a critical role in building strong communities and strong futures,” said Peter Rice, President & CEO of Hanscom Federal Credit Union. “Through the John F. Condon Memorial Scholarship program, we’re proud to support students who are working hard to pursue their goals and make a positive impact.” Scholarships are open to Hanscom FCU members who are graduating high school seniors or gap-year graduates and who plan to attend an accredited college, university, or other institution of higher learning in the coming academic year. Awards are based on a combination of academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and an essay submission. Students must have their own individual prime shares account to be eligible. Hanscom Federal Credit Union’s scholarship program is one of many ways the credit union invests in its members and gives back to the communities it serves. To learn more about eligibility requirements and how to apply, visit: hfcu.org . About Hanscom Federal Credit Union Hanscom, with more than $2.1 billion in assets, 115,000+ members, 300+ employees, and 23 branches across Massachusetts, Maryland, and Virginia, is one of the region’s most trusted credit unions. Founded in 1953, the organization’s mission is to be the trusted advisor people turn to for unbiased financial guidance, and its vision is to help every member achieve financial wellness. Guided by its core values – Members First, Integrity, Teamwork, Innovation, and Empathy – Hanscom offers a full suite of financial products and services, supported by thousands of shared branches and service center locations nationwide. Hanscom created WealthTrek, the world’s first financial questing experience, transforming financial education into an interactive, game-like journey. The credit union proudly supports its communities through the Hanscom Federal Credit Union Charitable Foundation, contributing more than $500,000 annually to causes supporting veterans, military families, students, and local organizations.