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Rock, paper, scissors may be a simple game, but this September, it made a big impact across Idaho.

First Federal Bank’s annual Rock, Paper, Scissors Tournaments of Champions returned to the Magic and Treasure Valleys, bringing together 64 local businesses and raising $37,000 for non-profits throughout the communities First Federal serves.

The Magic Valley tournament took over the Twin Falls Downtown Commons on September 17, followed by the Treasure Valley tournament at Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park in Meridian on September 24. Thirty-two businesses competed at each event, representing a non-profit organization of their choice, and battled through a bracket-style, best-of-three rock, paper, scissors tournament.

But the competition was only part of the fun.

Before throwing their first rock, paper or scissors, teams took the stage for elaborate introductions that brought plenty of personality to both events. Kids swarmed the stage as competitors tossed candy and then teams danced their way into the competition, Dolly Parton look-alikes and Super Mario characters made an appearance

Behind the costumes, dancing, and friendly competition was a shared purpose - supporting organizations making a difference throughout Idaho.

“Rock Paper Scissors is such a high-energy event that brings our community together while making a meaningful impact for local nonprofits,” said Angela Wells Community Engagement Manager at First Federal Bank. “It’s a fun, unique way for local businesses to get involved and give back, and one of my favorite parts is seeing the creativity that comes out of it—from the incredible costumes to the choreographed dances. It’s always exciting to see our community come together, have fun and support a great cause.”

Magic Valley Champions

In the Magic Valley, St. Luke’s came out on top, earning first place and $7,500. They also won Best Introduction, adding another $1,250 for the organization and bringing its total contribution to $8,750 for Valley House

Beyer Construction finished second, earning $5,000 for The Idaho Foodbank, while Sorren took third place and $2,500 for Twin Falls Christian Academy. Farm Bureau Insurance – Jennifer Cook finished fourth, earning $1,500 for Optimist Youth House.

Wills Toyota received the $750 consolation prize for the Twin Falls Animal Shelter.

Treasure Valley Champions

One week later, another 32 businesses stepped up to the bracket in the Treasure Valley.

Witco Inc. claimed first place, earning $7,500 to support Witco Inc. and its work in the community.

Tio’s Painting finished second, earning $5,000 for the Idaho Hispanic Foundation, followed by Jalapeños Bar & Grill in third place, earning $2,500 for the Boys & Girls Club of Canyon County.

Access Garage Doors of Treasure Valley took fourth place, earning $1,500 for Miller’s Mission.

The night wasn't only about who survived the bracket. Better Together Idaho earned Best Introduction and $1,250 for Game Changers, while Hope Services received the $750 consolation prize for Birdies for Kids.

Playing for Something Bigger

The Tournaments of Champions began in 2019 as an unconventional idea for bringing businesses, nonprofits and community members together. Since then, the events have grown into an annual tradition centered around friendly competition and giving back.

Businesses pay an entry fee to compete, which First Federal Bank matches to help create the prize pool. Each business selects a nonprofit to represent, meaning every round of rock, paper, scissors is played for something bigger than a trophy or bragging rights.

This year’s tournaments once again showed just how much good can come from a little friendly competition.