First Interstate Bank’s Volunteer Day benefits 234 nonprofits

To mark its fourth annual Volunteer Day, First Interstate Bank closed all branches at noon on September 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 Coeur d’Alene

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 Coeur d’Alene, volunteers participated in six service projects, supporting six organizations including Children’s Village and Habitat for Humanity of North Idaho, among others. Throughout these organizations, volunteers could be seen painting outsides of homes, repairing homes, organizing, and fundraising.

“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 Jerry Lyon, Northern Idaho Market President. “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.

“The volunteers showed up and were ready to work. They were engaged and accomplished so much. We are so happy to have the opportunity to be involved with this event,” said Sara Sessions, Habitat for Humanity of North Idaho’s volunteer coordinator. “We had a lot of fun and hope that the volunteers felt like they made a difference. Although it can be hard to see the bigger picture on some projects, the impact that was made for the families and our community was huge."

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.