BELLE FOURCHE—A day celebrating the monumental mark of $100 million in local giving through 35 years of philanthropic work was observed at each First Interstate Bank location on April 21.
From 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. patrons were invited to an open house at the Belle Fourche branch, where community members joined in the celebration with refreshments and conversation. At the same time, similar events were held at nearly 300 locations across Colorado, Idaho, Iowa, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Oregon, South Dakota, Washington and Wyoming.
“We are celebrating our $100 million in donations,” explained Amanda Kramp, consumer and small business banker. “It’s a major milestone—we’ve donated $100 million in total giving by First Interstate Bank and First Interstate Bank Systems Foundation since the foundation’s inception in 1990.”
Quite a milestone to reach and an event worthy of celebration. Right here in Belle Fourche, First Interstate Bank has deep roots in the local community, having opened in 2008. The local branch offered charcuterie and desserts along with a variety of refreshments to area residents. And right here in Belle Fourche, their giving has made an impact.
“So out here locally, at the Belle Fourche branch, our support focuses on the local places. We have done things including financial literacy and youth development,” shared Kramp. “I know I just went and volunteered for Junior Achievement at the high school. We’ve also done a lot of volunteering and donations to the Belle Silver Lining, Compassion Cupboard and Meals on Wheels.”
Giving to the local areas where First Interstate Bank does business is important to them. “It is important for us at First Interstate Bank, because being locally rooted and supporting our community means that we live and work in the same neighborhoods as our clients,” said Kramp. “So we actually can understand where the support is needed. We’re here, we see it and we want people to know that we care and they matter!”
The bank gives back in a variety of ways. “We have our Believe in Local, which each year 40 nonprofits are awarded $1 million in support. Every employee of First Interstate Bank can nominate a nonprofit…then 40 different nonprofits are awarded grants every year,” said Kramp.
Some of the other local programs that First Interstate Bank gives to include donating to the Festival of Trees, Out of the Darkness Walk, the coat drive for the schools and Fill the Bus for school supplies. Once a year the bank shuts down for the day and all employees participate in Volunteer Day.
This day of celebration is the culmination of a multi-month celebration with community partner spotlights. Various businesses throughout the different communities have shared their stories about how First Interstate Bank has helped them. “The information has been shared online across our social media platforms, and then it’s concluding with our Community Open House today at all branches,” explained Kramp.
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