Making a Lifesaving Impact

By day, Haley serves as our Enterprise Applications Manager and as a member of the South Dakota National Guard. But it’s his work with the Sergeant Colton Levi Derr Foundation that sets him apart. Founded in 2012 in memory of his brother, who lost his life to suicide after battling PTSD, the foundation has become a lifeline for veterans across the nation. Under Haley’s leadership as the President of the Foundation from 2012 to 2024, and through his continued involvement today, the foundation has filled critical gaps often overlooked by larger organizations.
 

“Haley’s dedication to veterans and his leadership in mental health advocacy make him an outstanding candidate for this award,” Holly Jones, Chief Administrative Officer, shared. “If not for the foundation, many veterans would be left without the support they desperately need. His work doesn’t just improve lives, it saves them.”

Haley’s impact is both broad and deeply personal. The foundation has received over 500 applications for assistance, and Haley’s leadership has directly impacted hundreds of veterans, not just through services but through compassion, mentorship, and a renewed sense of purpose. He personally contributes hundreds of volunteer hours annually. Add in the foundation’s team, comprised of four family members and 15 consistent volunteers, and that number balloons to over 2,000 hours per year.

The foundation’s offerings are numerous. They provide direct assistance for veterans from aid for housing and utilities to therapy and legal services, offer equine therapy and peer-to-peer support programs, and collaborate with local service offices to ensure veterans and their families receive the benefits they deserve. The foundation also raises awareness through events such as the Gallantly Forward Gala, the Sergeant Colton Levi Derr Annual Charity Golf Tournament, CrossFit challenges, and Veterans Recovery Concerts.
 

“The foundation is often the first organization contacted by the local VA office when a veteran is in need. It’s a testament to the foundation’s trusted reputation and Haley’s tireless advocacy,” Jones explained.

This honor came as a surprise to Haley at the DakCU Summit Awards Dinner earlier this month. When asked for his reaction, here’s what he had to say.
 

“Similar to the credit union philosophy of People Helping People, my family and I do our best to help anyone in need,” Haley shared at the awards ceremony. “Elvis once said, ‘Values are like fingerprints. Nobody’s are the same, but you leave them all over everything you do.’ I like to think the fingerprints of my family’s foundation are all over this community and across the country.”

Please join us in celebrating the important work of Haley and the Sergeant Colton Levi Derr Foundation as he receives this well-deserved award. We’re proud of you, Haley!