19 organizations to receive receive support for community projects and initiatives.
The First Federal Foundation has announced a total of 19 non-profits, all located in the Magic and Treasure Valleys, will be receiving $51,969 in combined support from the Foundation’s winter grant cycle. Over 50 applications were submitted for consideration during this most recent grant period, the second of the Foundation’s bi-annual funding time frames. The Foundation also made contributions to 16 Southern Idaho-based charitable organizations in July. Overall, during 2023, the First Federal Foundation impacted 35 different non-profits and awarded over $110,000 in support. Since being established in 2003, the Foundation has now distributed more than $1.4 million towards community enhancements and causes.
“The Foundation is an incredibly special and unique part of First Fed,” said Valli Nelson, Community Engagement and Events Specialist at First Federal Bank. “As part of my position within the Bank, I work on Foundation-related items daily. This level of involvement allows me to see firsthand the impact the grants have on our communities. We are helping to improve this special place we all call home.”
To be selected as a recipient, grant applications must be a capital project and illustrate community impact. Specially, the First Federal Foundation Board analyzes applications for their ability to enhance the wellbeing and quality of life for people who live in the communities served by First Federal Bank.
When notified they would be receiving a grant, Richard Powell, from the Filer Quick Response Unit exclaimed, “This is absolutely amazing and will make such a difference for us and our ability to serve the community, especially when responding to emergencies. Thank you!” Kim Spiers, Assistant Director of the Valley House, enthusiastically stated, “This grant will allow us to replace our outdated staff computers, allowing us to better assist individuals needing help.”
2023 Winter Grant Recipients are listed below, including a brief description of their project/initiative.
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Organization Name
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Project Description
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Benevolence and Beyond Inc.
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Roll Carts
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Breaking Chains Academy of Development (Nampa)
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Printers
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Burley Discovery Museum
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Cargo Trailer
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Explore Dance Company (Treasure Valley)
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Window Coverings
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Filer Quick Response Unit
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Technical Rope Rescue Equipment
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Girls on the Run Southern Idaho
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Technology Equipment
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Jerome School District
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Spanish Language Books for Dual Literacy Program
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Lincoln County Historical Society
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Entrance Awning
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Magic Valley Youth Services, Inc.
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Chairs and Booster Seats
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Men's Second Chance Living
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Furnishings for Residents
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Mt. Harrison High School (Minidoka Education Foundation)
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Greenhouse Improvements
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Sawtooth Elementary PTO
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Adaptive Playground Equipment
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Simply Hope Family Outreach, Inc.
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Freezer and Ice Maker
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The Optimist Club of Twin Falls, Idaho
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Coats for Kids
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Twin Falls Optimist Youth House
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Patio Furniture
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Valley House Homeless Shelter
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Computers for Staff
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Valley Lunch Program
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Cafeteria Tables
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Women's and Children's Alliance (Boise)
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Wireless Network Equipment
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The next First Federal Foundation grant cycle will occur during the summer of 2024, with the application period beginning late spring. Additional details on the summer grant process will be communicated in the coming months. For more information about the Foundation, visit www.bankfirstfed.com/foundation.
