The Nakupuna team with Tony Teravainen
HONOLULU, HI – The Nakupuna Foundation has been selected by Support The Enlisted Project (STEP) as the recipient of its 2025 Honor Roll of Leadership Award, recognizing organizations whose commitment and leadership have made a lasting difference for military families navigating financial challenges. The award was announced during STEP’s Annual Fall Social in San Diego, which celebrates exceptional advocates and partners whose contributions have fueled STEP’s mission and expanded its reach.
For more than a decade, STEP has united thousands of donors, volunteers, and community partners to help service members and veterans achieve financial self-sufficiency. The Nakupuna Foundation began its partnership with STEP in 2019 and has since supported counseling and emergency programs that help military families overcome hardship. Employees of the Nakupuna Companies have also connected with STEP’s mission over the years through hands-on community service and by amplifying awareness of the organization during events that support STEP’s growing geographic reach.
“Nakupuna has repeatedly worked to elevate STEP since 2019 through not just funding, but through their advice, network, and advocacy,” shared Tony Teravainen, STEP CEO and Co-Founder. “Their partnership helped to shape our national impact, giving us the ability to support more military families on the path to long-term financial wellness.” Previous award winners include the Walter J. and Betty C. Zable Foundation, The USS Midway Foundation, The Century Club of San Diego, The Price Family, and US Bank.
Jason Greenawalt, Board Member of the Nakupuna Foundation and CEO of the Nakupuna Companies, reflected on the recognition: “Our commitment to STEP has always been about investing in people and possibilities. STEP’s team brings professionalism, passion, and purpose to every interaction, empowering more service members and their families to achieve lasting financial stability. It’s an honor to be part of their journey.”
The Nakupuna Foundation looks forward to continuing its partnership with STEP to expand opportunities and strengthen support systems for service members and their families nationwide.
Learn more about STEP and its mission to end financial crises in military families and see how you can get involved.
