In Memoriam: Harry Okamoto, Jr.
As we begin the new year, we take a moment to reflect on the life and contributions of Harry Okamoto, Jr., who passed away this past October. While many of you may not have had the chance to know Harry personally, his contributions to Lōkahi Federal Credit Union were significant and deeply appreciated.
Harry joined our Board of Directors four years ago and brought with him an extensive background in lending, along with a wealth of knowledge from more than 30 years in the financial industry. After retiring, Harry chose to give back by volunteering his time and expertise to help guide our credit union forward. His commitment to service and the community was evident in everything he did.
Although Harry was a quiet man, those who worked alongside him knew his great sense of humor and kind spirit. His insights and experience strengthened our Board, and his presence will be missed by all who had the privilege of serving with him.
Though a few months have passed since his passing, his memory and impact remain strong within our Lōkahi ‘ohana. We extend our heartfelt mahalo to Harry for his years of dedication and the wisdom he shared. As we bid him aloha, we honor his memory and carry forward the values he exemplified.
President's Message
Hau'oli Makahiki Hou! As we welcome the new year, we are filled with excitement and optimism for what lies ahead. A new year brings fresh opportunities to innovate, strengthen our community, and deliver exceptional service to our members. Together, we will build on the momentum of 2025 and set the stage for even greater achievements in 2026.
Before turning the page, it’s important to reflect on the incredible progress we made in the past year—a year defined by transformation, growth, and a renewed commitment to serving our members and community. Thanks to your trust and support, we achieved milestones that will shape Lōkahi Federal Credit Union's future for years to come.
This past year, we focused on enhancing the member experience. We transitioned to a new statement processor, giving member statements a modern, easy-to-read look. We also made enhancements to our online banking and mobile app for improved usability. These enhancements include the new Manage Cards feature, empowering members with greater control over debit and credit card management. We also introduced four all-new checking account options tailored to the diverse lifestyles and financial goals of our membership, and launched the EcoSmart Appliance Loan to help members invest in energy-efficient home improvements that promote sustainability and long-term savings.
Our commitment to community engagement was stronger than ever. We launched the Better, Together Podcast to share inspiring stories from local leaders and provide behind-the-scenes insights into the people and purpose driving Lōkahi FCU. We supported charitable initiatives such as the Children’s Miracle Network and Hickam First Sergeants Angel Tree campaigns, staff volunteered at Keiki & Kūpuna ID and Special Olympics events, and Lōkahi FCU staff assisted and prepared tax returns as part of the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Additionally, we awarded $2,000 college scholarships to five deserving students and presented a $7,500 grant to the Hawaiʻi HomeOwnership Center to assist first-time home buyers.
Perhaps one of our most significant achievements this year was the successful rebrand to Lōkahi Federal Credit Union—a transformation that went far beyond a name change. This initiative included the launch of a completely redesigned website, featuring a modern aesthetic, streamlined navigation, and enhanced functionality to better serve our members. The rebrand was a comprehensive effort aimed at reflecting our values of unity and trust while positioning us for future growth. Achieving this required extensive planning, collaboration, and creativity, and it would not have been possible without the dedication of our staff and the visionary leadership of our volunteer Board of Directors.
These accomplishments reflect our unwavering commitment to our members and the community we serve. Looking ahead, 2026 promises to be an exciting year as we continue to innovate, expand our offerings, and deepen our community connections. None of this would be possible without your loyalty and support.
Scott Kaulukukui
President/CEO
Saying "A Hui Hou" to the
Hickam Branch
As was shared in the 4th Quarter 2025 Newsletter, the Lōkahi Federal Credit Union Hickam Branch, located on Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, will say "a hui hou" as it permanently closes its doors on March 20, 2026. While this marks the end of a historical chapter for our credit union, we are deeply grateful for the trust, loyalty, and aloha shared with our Hickam Branch ʻohana over the decades.
In addition to the branch closure, all Lōkahi FCU ATMs located on Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam will be removed.
Convenient Banking Options Available:
- 24/7 Digital Banking: Access your account when it’s convenient for you through Lōkahi FCU Online Banking or the Mobile App.
- ATM Access: Enjoy surcharge-free access to the Lōkahi FCU network of ATMs, up to 6 surcharge-free transactions per calendar month at any First Hawaiian Bank ATM, and at over 25,000 CO-OP ATMs ($2 charge for every withdrawal thereafter for the month).
- Shared Branch Locations: Lōkahi FCU is part of a network of over 5,000 Shared Branch locations nationwide and over 70 on Oʻahu. Visit a Shared Branch location to conduct basic transactions just as if you were at a Lōkahi FCU branch. Click here to find Shared Branch locations.
- Nearby Branches: You may continue to access full services at our convenient nearby branches:
| Pearlridge Branch 98-1005 Moanalua Rd, Suite 245 Aiea, HI 96701 Inside Pearlridge Center Mauka near the Ross Wing | Pearl City Branch |
Other convenient branch locations across Oʻahu include:
| Kāhala Mall Kiosk 4211 Waiʻalae Ave Honolulu, HI 96816 Inside Kāhala Mall between Macy's and The Face Shop | Kapolei Branch 590 Farrington Hwy, Suite 501 Kapolei, HI 96707 At Kapolei Marketplace near Doraku Sushi |
| Kāneʻohe Branch 46-056 Kamehameha Hwy Kāneʻohe, HI 96744 Inside Windward Mall across from Ruby Tuesday's | Mililani Branch 95-1249 Meheula Pkwy A-15 Mililani, Hi 96789 At Town Center of Mililani near HIC |
We understand that change can be challenging, and we are here to support you through this transition. Our team is available to answer any questions and help you explore alternative service options that best meet your needs.
Thank you for your continued trust and membership. We remain committed to providing you with the highest level of service—wherever and however you choose to bank with us.
89th Annual Meeting
The 89th Lōkahi FCU Annual Meeting will be held Monday, March 2, 2026, at the Pearl City Branch. Registration will begin at 4:00 p.m., with the meeting to be conducted promptly at 4:30 p.m. Several offices will be set up with limited capacity and remote access to the meeting. No refreshments will be served. To RSVP to attend the Annual Meeting, please contact us at 808.423.1391 or toll-free at 1.800.432.4328.
Click Here for Details and to Enter!
2026 College Scholarship Program
Lōkahi Federal Credit Union is committed to supporting our student members and is proud to offer our College Scholarship Program to help members advance their education and achieve their dreams.
The 2026 Lōkahi FCU College Scholarship Program will award five (5) $2,000 scholarships to deserving graduating high school seniors attending an accredited 2 or 4-year institution of higher learning, or undergraduate or graduate students pursuing a higher degree from an accredited institution.
Primary members with their own Lōkahi FCU Savings Account in good standing for at least 12 consecutive months prior to the application deadline may apply. Scholarship recipients will be selected based on academics, leadership, school/community service, and recommendations.
Supporting the
Children's Miracle Network
Thanks to the incredible generosity and support of our members and staff, Lōkahi FCU raised an astonishing $8,447.48 for the Children’s Miracle Network, benefitting the Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women and Children.
At Lōkahi FCU, we live by the belief that “we can make it better, together.” Year after year, our Lōkahi FCU ʻohana proudly joins forces to support this amazing organization and the children and families it serves.
To everyone who contributed to this worthwhile cause—mahalo nui loa for helping us make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Your kindness and commitment truly embody the spirit of Lōkahi.
Angel Tree Gift Giving
Lōkahi FCU was once again proud to partner with the Hawaii Air Force First Sergeants for another year of Angel Tree! Keiki, ranging from infants to teenagers, received gifts from their wish lists. With your help, we were able to provide gifts for 35 children in need. Mahalo for your support!
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Your Guide to Building, Protecting, and
Passing on Real Estate Wealth
For many local Hawaiʻi families, real estate is the biggest investment you’ll ever make—and often the one that carries the most pressure. Between work, kids, caring for kūpuna, and the rising cost of living, there’s rarely time to step back and ask, “Are we making the best decisions for our family?”
That’s why Lōkahi Federal Credit Union is sponsoring a free, three-part educational seminar series designed especially for Hawaiʻi families who want clarity—not sales pitches—around their real estate decisions.
Building Wealth Through Real Estate
Learn how local families use real estate to build stability over time—whether it’s your first home, a rental, or planning for retirement. We’ll show simple ways to understand what your property is really doing for you.
Protecting the Wealth You’ve Worked So Hard For
Many families lose money due to taxes, poor timing, or simply not knowing their options. This seminar focuses on protecting what you’ve earned and avoiding common and costly mistakes.
Passing On Real Estate Without Family Conflict
Too often, property meant to help the next generation causes stress and disagreements instead. This session helps families talk story now, reduce taxes later, and pass on real estate in a way that keeps families together.
The seminars are based on real-life Hawaiʻi experience and the book Property Decisions: Avoid Family Disputes & Painful Taxes to Build a Legacy That Lasts. They are educational, practical, and respectful of local values—no pressure, no selling.
Our goal is simple: help Lōkahi FCU members make smart, informed real estate decisions that support their family today and the next generation tomorrow.
Dates and registration details coming soon.
We hope you’ll join us.
Check out the latest episode of our Better Together Podcast. In this episode, we sit down with realtor, Maila Gibson-Bandmann to uncover valuable insights into the home-buying process. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or planning your next move, Maila shares practical tips, common pitfalls to avoid, and strategies to make your journey smoother.
Protect Yourself from Scams: The Do’s and Don’ts
Scammers are getting more sophisticated every day, using tactics that look convincing and urgent to trick you into sharing personal information. Staying alert and knowing what to do—and what not to do—can help keep your accounts and identity safe.
- Be cautious with email or text message links and attachments. Only click if you are confident about the sender.
- Limit information you share on social media and be selective about who you connect with to avoid being targeted by a possible scammer.
- Report suspicious account activity immediately. Quick action can prevent further harm.
- Don’t always trust the name. Fraudsters can spoof emails, phone numbers, and website URLs to look legitimate.
- Don’t provide personal or account information. Sharing sensitive information can help scammers impersonate you.
- Don’t share one-time passcodes sent to you via email or text.
- Don’t fall for urgency or fear tactics. Messages claiming “immediate response needed” or “unauthorized login attempt” are common scam triggers.
Your security is our top priority. By following these simple guidelines, you can help protect yourself from fraud and keep your financial information safe. If you ever suspect suspicious activity, contact Lōkahi FCU right away—we’re here to help.
Did you miss an issue of the Better Together Newsletter? Catch up on past issues here.
