News

First Federal Bank is proud to announce the opening of the First Federal Foundation Summer Grant Cycle, running May 1 through June 30, along with the addition of three new Foundation board members: Kent Schow, Scott Plew, and Josh Evarts.

For more than 23 years, the First Federal Foundation has been committed to strengthening the communities it serves by providing grant funding to local non-profits. The Foundation focuses on supporting capital projects that create meaningful, long-term impact across the communities where First Federal employees and customers live and work.

“At First Federal, we believe that serving and supporting our communities is essential,” said Angela Wells, Customer and Community Engagement Manager. “The Foundation gives us the ability to respond to real needs and invest in projects that create lasting change.”

The addition of new board members brings valuable insight and perspective to the grant review process.

“The board has a unique understanding of what the needs are in the community,” Wells said. “When new members come on, they bring  fresh viewpoints on non-profits and what’s happening in their communities.”

The Foundation board is made up of both community members and First Federal employees, providing a well-rounded perspective to the grant review process. New additions to the board include Kent Schow, owner of Schow’s Incorporated; Scott Plew, President of Standlee Premium Western Forage; and Josh Evarts, owner of The Vault Cigar Lounge.

Through its grant program, the Foundation prioritizes projects that create a lasting “ripple effect” across the community, investments that continue to serve organizations and individuals well beyond the initial funding.

“One of the biggest things we look for is how a grant will impact not just one organization, but the broader community,” Wells said. “It’s about creating something that lasts and continues to make a difference over time.”

One of the most meaningful aspects of the Foundation’s work is connecting directly with non-profit partners and hearing their stories.

“The grant recipient luncheons are my favorite,” Wells shared. “Hearing from the non-profits, their passion, and what the funding will help them accomplish it’s incredibly powerful.”

Non-profit organizations interested in applying are encouraged to clearly share their story and demonstrate how their project will create meaningful community impact.

“Tell your story and help us understand the bigger picture,” Wells added.

Applications for the Summer Grant Cycle will be accepted May 1 through June 30.

Apply Now!