News

The First Federal Foundation has awarded its first grants for 2025, providing a total of $49,634 to 16 different Idaho non-profits. Grant recipients will be utilizing the funding for various capital projects that help continue or enhance their work in the community. More than 75 organizations submitted a grant request during the recent two-month application period (from May 1 through June 30), marking the highest amount ever. Organizations that did not receive funding will be reviewed by the First Federal Bank Marketing team for alternative opportunities to support.

“This is always an enjoyable and inspiring process,” remarked Nick Popplewell, Chief Marketing Officer for First Federal Bank and Chair of the First Federal Foundation Board. “We received dozens of worthy applications from charitable entities throughout Southern Idaho. The difference being made by our local non-profits, to improve lives as well as our communities, is remarkable. We (the First Federal Foundation) are proud to aid in those efforts.”

The First Federal Foundation board, made up of First Federal employees as well as community members, reviews each grant proposal for its overall ability to impact the community and enhance quality of life. To be considered, applications must come from be an Idaho-based non-profit and operate in one of the Foundation’s areas of focus – education, civic, health, human services, social, or cultural. Additionally, grants must be capital project in nature, demonstrating a tangible outcome that improves the non-profit’s ability to function and accomplish its mission.

Wendy Gardner, Co-Founder of the non-profit Love Yourself, shared the results of receiving a grant for a trailer in 2024, “The trailer is more than just a tool for transportation and storage; it’s a mobile extension of our mission. It allows us to share resources, offer hope, and be visible in the community year-round. Your support helps us carry forward a message that no one is alone in their struggle, and that healing and hope are always possible.”

2025 Summer Grant Recipients are listed below, including a brief description of their project/initiative.

All grant recipients will be honored and recognized at a luncheon at Blue Lakes Country Club on Wednesday, August 20.

The First Federal Foundation will provide another grant opportunity this year, with the application period beginning Wednesday, October 1 and running through Friday, November 21. Applications will be reviewed and grant awardees announced in mid-December. Additional details on the upcoming grant process will be communicated in the near future. For more information about the Foundation, please visit  www.bankfirstfed.com/foundation