For me, and probably for many of us, the holidays are a time for reflection. After all, this season is filled with traditions, memories, and nostalgia, so it’s only natural for our thoughts to turn toward  the reasons we celebrate, the goals we’ve accomplished, the places we’ve been, and the things we still hope to do and see.

My family and I have many cherished traditions and ways we commemorate this special time of year together. Some of them are probably similar to or the same things you and your families do, while others are, I’m sure, unique to us and our shared history. Some are so old we can’t even remember how or when they started, and some are new and express who we are now. But common or one-of-a-kind, old or new, all our traditions connect us—not only to each other, but also to the people who’ve helped us get to where we are, and to those we’ll be able to help get to where they will someday be.

Along with my family’s traditions, I’ve been thinking a lot about the traditions of America First, none of which is more important or enduring than our legacy of service. This year marked our 85th anniversary, which has been a wonderful reminder of how far we’ve come together. Since 1939, we’ve been serving our members and doing everything we could to help you all realize your individual financial goals and dreams. We truly are people helping people, and along with making a difference in one another’s lives, we’ve always been committed to making a difference in the communities we serve.

That’s why a few of the other milestones we’ve passed this year are especially noteworthy, including the 35th anniversary of the America First Charitable Foundation. It’s a wonderful organization that is wholly funded by contributions from our members and communities. One hundred percent of those funds are dispersed

to organizations and causes that help meet the needs of countless families and individuals throughout the communities in which the credit union operates.

This year also marks our 30th Annual Warm the Soles of Kids shoe drive. Every November and December, we collect monetary donations to purchase new shoes for children in need in Arizona, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah. It’s an incredibly worthwhile cause, and if you’re able to contribute, please consider doing so. You can donate in Online and Mobile Banking, or at your neighborhood branch.

Lastly, through September and October, we held our 20th Annual Food Drive to raise funds and collect donations to help fight hunger in the areas we serve. Our goal this year is to provide 150,000 meals to those in need. No one should go hungry in communities as strong and generous as ours, and we’re profoundly grateful to all those who work and give to make sure they don’t.

Our traditions show who we are and what we care about, so thank you for being members of America First and for helping us show the world how much good we can do. From all the employees and volunteers here at your credit union, I wish you and yours the happiest holidays and a warm and wonderful new year.