JACKSON, Wyo. — To mark its fourth annual Volunteer Day, First Interstate Bank closed all branches at noon on Sept. 8 to grant employees paid time to volunteer in their communities. More than 1,820 employees supported 234 separate nonprofit organizations across six states, making this year’s impact the largest ever.
Volunteer Day in Jackson
The overarching philanthropic focus of this year’s Volunteer Day was anchored in combating poverty, hunger, and homelessness. However, employees were empowered to select whichever nonprofit organization they desired to ensure they catered to the specific needs of their communities. Here in Jackson, volunteers participated in five service projects, supporting five organizations including the National Museum of Wildlife Art and Habitat for Humanity of the Greater Teton Area, among others. Throughout these organizations, volunteers could be seen filling garden beds and maintaining sculpture trails.
“This day simply concentrates and magnifies the efforts of our wonderful employees, who give and give generously to the places where we live and work,” said Richard Uhl, Market President in Jackson. “We are honored to celebrate the power of community with our neighbors today.”
Recognizing the challenges brought on by COVID-19, employees were given the option to volunteer onsite at organizations that accommodated safe social distancing. Additional options allowed employees to volunteer remotely—from their home, from the Bank, or virtually by hosting webinars or financial education seminars.
“We bank with First Interstate as well as have some employees serve on our board and committees, so the project served as a good opportunity to connect in a different way. The group worked on a community garden which will bring people in the neighborhood together for years to come,” said Hannah Sell, Habitat for Humanity of the Greater Teton Area’s office and volunteer coordinator. “The garden will serve 24 homes that were built by Habitat for Humanity and 24 homes that were built as affordable homes by the Town of Jackson. In addition, Habitat for Humanity uses volunteers to help keep labor costs low so we can continue to build affordable homes and make a difference in our community.”
Commitment to Community
Giving back on Volunteer Day isn’t just a one-and-done focus for First Interstate. It’s a philanthropic philosophy employees bring to life every day at the $18.9 billion organization with branches across six states.
“Giving back to the places we call home is what makes us who we are,” said First Interstate President and CEO, Kevin Riley. “Yes, we’re a full-service community bank, but more importantly, we’re a trusted community partner and neighbor. We are honored to celebrate the power of community with you on Volunteer Day—and every day.”
In addition to Volunteer Day, First Interstate champions other innovative philanthropy-focused programs, including Teach Children to Save, Neighbors Feeding Neighbors, Coats and More, and Get Smart About Credit. Additionally, through the organization’s volunteer match program, the bank pays nonprofits $10 for each hour First Interstate employees volunteer at their organizations. First Interstate also matches employee donations to nonprofits and is committed to donating 2% of its net income before taxes to charitable organizations. In fact, over the past 11 years, First Interstate has contributed $36.3 million in donations and 143,000 volunteer hours to nonprofits across its footprint.
Making a Difference in the Places We Call Home
To learn more about Volunteer Day or the additional services that First Interstate offers, visit firstinterstate.com or stop into one of First Interstate’s more than 150 branch locations.
