Elevations launches donation drive to support teens amid rising holiday need

As the 2025 holiday season begins, Colorado nonprofits are facing a surge in demand, as one in three nonprofits had federal funding disruptions in 2025. 

To help fill the gap, Elevations Credit Union has launched its Shine a Little Light donation drive, active now at all 14 branches across Boulder, Broomfield, and Northern Colorado. People can donate by scanning a QR code from an ornament in a branch, hanging it on a holiday tree, and bringing another ornament home as a keepsake. 

How the campaign helps: 

• Donations fund holiday gifts that reflect what teens truly want and need
• Supports nonprofits focused on youth mental health, crisis response, and equity
• Benefits organizations including:
  • Northern Colorado: 
    • Realities for Children
    • The Matthews House
    • Alliance for Suicide Prevention
    • Rocky Mountain Equality
  • Boulder/Broomfield:
    • Emergency Family Assistance Association (EFAA)
    • Rise Against Suicide
    • Rocky Mountain Equality

“This year, nonprofits we work with are seeing more need than ever,” said Aimee Sundstrom, lead organizer of the Shine a Little Light campaign at Elevations. “Teens deserve to feel seen and celebrated — especially when so many are facing emotional and financial stress. We’re proud to support local nonprofits doing this work every day.”