Illuminating Change partnership supports youth, families, and Waypoint’s annual SleepOut initiative
MANCHESTER, February 12, 2026 — Members First Credit Union has named Waypoint as its Q1 Illuminating Change Spotlight Partner, recognizing the organization’s long-standing commitment to supporting children, families, and individuals across New Hampshire.
Illuminating Change is Members First’s community impact initiative designed to support nonprofit organizations through financial contributions, long-term partnerships, and strategic storytelling. Spotlight Partners represent the highest level of engagement within the program and are selected quarterly for extended support and visibility.
For more than a century, Waypoint has served New Hampshire communities through early childhood education, family support services, and housing stability programs. Their work focuses on meeting people where they are and providing compassionate, responsive support during some of life’s most challenging moments.
“Strong communities start with safe, sustainable, and affordable housing,” said Courtney Fifield, President and CEO of Members First Credit Union, who also serves on Waypoint’s Board of Directors.
“Waypoint’s work supports children, families, and young adults at critical points in their lives, and we’re proud to partner with an organization that shares our belief that safe, stable housing and family support are foundational to long-term well-being.”
—Courtney Fifield, President & CEO
As an Illuminating Change Spotlight Partner, Waypoint will receive a $2,500 donation from Members First Credit Union, along with featured content, advertising support, and storytelling across Members First’s digital channels. The partnership also includes community engagement opportunities and ongoing visibility throughout the quarter to help amplify Waypoint’s mission and impact.
“At Members First, Illuminating Change is about more than making donations; it’s about building meaningful partnerships that elevate the incredible work happening right here in New Hampshire,” said Christine Wheeler, Director of Marketing & Community Development at Members First Credit Union. “Waypoint’s commitment to children, families, and housing stability aligns deeply with our values, and we’re honored to support their efforts while helping share their story with our members and the broader community.”
A key focus of the partnership will be Waypoint’s annual SleepOut event, a community fundraiser that raises awareness about youth homelessness in New Hampshire. Through Illuminating Change, Members First is supporting SleepOut by funding Waypoint’s Artist in Residency Program, which provides creative opportunities for program participants and culminates in original artist pieces that will be displayed at the Illuminating Change gallery during Waypoint’s SleepOut event in March.
"Waypoint is proud to partner with Members First Credit Union and honored to be named an Illuminating Change Spotlight Partner. Members First’s support through SleepOut and our Artist in Residency program will help us continue making a meaningful impact for youth in New Hampshire who are experiencing homelessness. We are deeply grateful for this ongoing investment and look forward to coming together as a community on March 27 to raise awareness around this important issue."
Through Illuminating Change, Members First Credit Union is committed to supporting nonprofit partners whose work strengthens individuals, families, and communities across New Hampshire—today and for generations to come.
Visit Waypoint to learn about the organization and ways to get involved.
Additional information about SleepOut is available here.
About Members First Credit Union
Founded in 1949, Members First Credit Union of New Hampshire is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperative serving individuals, families, and businesses throughout the Greater Manchester region. With a people-first approach to banking, Members First offers a full range of personal and business financial services, including checking and savings accounts, loans, mortgages, and digital banking solutions.
Committed to strengthening the communities it serves, Members First Credit Union actively supports local nonprofits, community organizations, and financial education initiatives across New Hampshire. The credit union is federally insured by the NCUA and operates with a mission to help members achieve financial well-being at every stage of life. For more information, call 603-622-8781 or visit membersfirstnh.org.
Click here to view this press release as a downloadable PDF.
CONTACT:
Christine Wheeler
Director of Marketing & Community Development
pr@membersfirstnh.org