Financial Wellness
Message from the Board Chair—February 2026
I hope you had a peaceful holiday season filled with special moments with friends and loved ones. I sincerely hope the year ahead brings harmony, health, and prosperity to all.
I want to begin with a big "thank you" to our entire Tower team for the care, compassion, and support they provided to members during the 43-day federal government shutdown last fall. When the government closed, Tower quickly stepped up—providing nearly 2,000 paycheck assistance loans totaling more than $5 million, along with loan and credit card payment deferrals and waived fees.
This experience is a powerful reminder that we are your credit union, here to support your financial well-being in both good times and challenging ones. I'm incredibly proud of the difference we were able to make for our impacted members during such a stressful period.
Please rest assured that in the event of a similar situation in the future, Tower will be there. If you are experiencing financial challenges, please reach out to us regarding your situation so we can explore options that can best assist you.
I'd also suggest visiting our Fraud and Security Center on a regular basis to arm yourself with knowledge and stay informed about current scams impacting your fellow members.
Remember, if something seems too good to be true, it likely is. When in doubt, slow down, verify independently, and never share personal information or payment details under pressure.
Tower, along with TowerCares, has a longstanding history of giving back to the communities we serve. During this past government shutdown, when local food banks faced increased demand, TowerCares stepped in with a $70,000 donation to six local food banks and pantries.
And the giving didn't stop there! The Foundation also made a special $40,000 year-end donation to four TowerCares Community Heroes charity partners—Boys & Girls Clubs of Annapolis & Anne Arundel County, the Fort Meade Alliance Foundation, Horizon Day Camp, and Neighbor Ride. This donation, along with our innovative Pennies for Change program, helped us reach the $4 million in giving milestone in just ten years. Thank you for your continued generosity and support of the TowerCares mission.
Arland A. White, Jr.
Board of Directors Chairman
I want to begin with a big "thank you" to our entire Tower team for the care, compassion, and support they provided to members during the 43-day federal government shutdown last fall. When the government closed, Tower quickly stepped up—providing nearly 2,000 paycheck assistance loans totaling more than $5 million, along with loan and credit card payment deferrals and waived fees.
This experience is a powerful reminder that we are your credit union, here to support your financial well-being in both good times and challenging ones. I'm incredibly proud of the difference we were able to make for our impacted members during such a stressful period.
Please rest assured that in the event of a similar situation in the future, Tower will be there. If you are experiencing financial challenges, please reach out to us regarding your situation so we can explore options that can best assist you.
Earn more on your deposits
Looking ahead, if you're wanting better returns this year, our higher-than-industry-average Share Certificates are a smart, secure option. Share Certificates outpace most traditional savings accounts, and you choose the deposit amount and term. If you're expecting a tax refund, consider a regular or IRA Share Certificate as your money grows over time and can help provide for your future and retirement.Remain vigilant—fraud is on the rise
Last month's Identity Theft Awareness Week reminds us that we all must remain vigilant about protecting our personal and financial information. Scammers are becoming more sophisticated every day, and we must educate ourselves and stay aware. If you have not already taken advantage of ID Smart Shield, a free member benefit included with Tower's Digital Banking, I encourage you to do so.I'd also suggest visiting our Fraud and Security Center on a regular basis to arm yourself with knowledge and stay informed about current scams impacting your fellow members.
Remember, if something seems too good to be true, it likely is. When in doubt, slow down, verify independently, and never share personal information or payment details under pressure.
TowerCares Foundation surpasses $4 million in giving
Now for some good news! I'm proud to announce that our TowerCares Foundation recently surpassed $4 million in grants, donations, and scholarships to help our military heroes, Veterans, civilian Department of Defense employees, and children in need.Tower, along with TowerCares, has a longstanding history of giving back to the communities we serve. During this past government shutdown, when local food banks faced increased demand, TowerCares stepped in with a $70,000 donation to six local food banks and pantries.
And the giving didn't stop there! The Foundation also made a special $40,000 year-end donation to four TowerCares Community Heroes charity partners—Boys & Girls Clubs of Annapolis & Anne Arundel County, the Fort Meade Alliance Foundation, Horizon Day Camp, and Neighbor Ride. This donation, along with our innovative Pennies for Change program, helped us reach the $4 million in giving milestone in just ten years. Thank you for your continued generosity and support of the TowerCares mission.
Save big with our winter balance transfer promotion
This month kicks off our Tower Mastercard® special balance transfer promotion. If holiday and everyday expenses left you carrying debt, our balance transfer promotion can help you save on interest, pay down balances faster, and keep more money in your pocket in 2026. Click here for details and to get started. The promotion ends on March 31, so don't delay.Save the date: Annual Meeting
It's still a few months away, but please mark your calendars for Tower's Annual Meeting on May 19 at 5:00 pm at our Laurel Headquarters. Hear updates from your volunteer Board of Directors and Tower's Senior Management team. All members are welcome and encouraged to attend.Thank you for your membership
In closing, on behalf of your Board of Directors, thank you for your membership and the trust you place in Tower. We are honored to serve you and your family in 2026 and beyond and remain committed to enhancing your member experience, strengthening your financial stability, and supporting you every step of the way.Arland A. White, Jr.
Board of Directors Chairman
