Rooted in relationships. Driven by purpose.
Celebrating 35 years of impact through First Interstate Bank and the First Interstate BancSystem Foundation.
At First Interstate Bank, relationships are at the heart of everything we do. We meet people where they are, helping them get to where they want to be. Today, we’re proud to celebrate a major milestone: $100 million in total giving through First Interstate and the First Interstate BancSystem Foundation since 1990. This achievement reflects 35 years of purposeful investment in the communities we serve.
On November 15, 2025, we launched a 100-day celebration to honor this accomplishment. From six initial grants totaling $47,500, the Foundation has grown into a trusted partner for change, contributing more than $7 million in 2024 alone. Our journey has always been about building strong relationships that create lasting impact.
We invest in causes that matter—financial literacy, youth development, disaster relief, and nonprofit capacity building, to name a few. Through signature programs, we address immediate needs while fostering long-term solutions rooted in connection and trust.
Over $13 million matched to local nonprofits through employee engagement.
Serving 2,443 community organizations since 2018 through our annual companywide day of service.
Launched in 2022, we've invested $4 million in 160 nonprofits nominated and selected by our employees.
Over the past 5 years, employees have dedicated 200,000+ hours to our communities.
Contributing $2.7 million over 15 years to fight hunger.
We've distributed 80,400 coats and warm items since 2009.
Financial literacy education for students from pre-kindergarten through high school.
Assisting low- to moderate-income individuals and families.
Our 100-day celebration features client stories, community partner spotlights, and opportunities for local giving—all centered on the relationships that make our communities stronger. A commemorative event is planned for early 2026. Follow First Interstate on social media for the latest details.
Our community partners share the impact of First Interstate's support on their organization. Watch more stories of empowerment or share your own message of gratitude.
For 35 years, First Interstate has invested in the communities we serve — supporting nonprofits, empowering volunteers, and funding programs that make a lasting impact. Together, we’ve reached an incredible milestone: $100 million in philanthropic giving since 1990. Explore the moments that shaped our journey.
- 1990
We established First Interstate BancSystem Foundation, Inc. to strengthen regional economies and assist disadvantaged communities. Our first board included founder Homer A. Scott, Sr., and family members committed to giving back. That year, the Foundation awarded six grants from an initial fund of $50,000.
- 1998
Eight years later, we introduced Volunteer Match — a program still cherished by employees today. For every hour volunteered, the Foundation donated $12.50 to the nonprofit of choice, up to $2,500 per employee.
- 2001
Financial education took center stage with Mini Bank. In its first year, six Montana schools opened nearly 500 student accounts. Today, the program spans 21 schools with expanded partnerships.
- 2009
To fight hunger, we launched Neighbors Feeding Neighbors, doubling employee donations to food security organizations. That year, gifts totaled $119,385. Since then, we’ve contributed more than $2.7 million.
- 2009
In the third quarter of 2009, the Foundation officially launched its Neighbors Feeding Neighbors challenge. To alleviate food insecurity, the Foundation offered to double match employee donations to organizations fighting hunger. In 2009, the total gift reached $119,385, including $39,795 from employees and $79,590 from the Foundation. More than $2.7 million has been donated in the years since.
- 2009
Our first One Warm Coat Drive collected 5,058 coats for 37 nonprofits. Today, Coats and More has provided over 80,400 warm items to those in need.
- 2012
We expanded financial literacy efforts with programs protecting seniors from financial abuse.
- 2013
Branches gained new tools to make local impact through six pillars: Philanthropy, Volunteering, Financial Education, Community Development, Sustainability, and Sponsorships. Learn more about Commitment to Community.
- 2015
We created First Relief to help employees facing unexpected hardships, funded by company and employee contributions.
- 2018
To celebrate our 50th anniversary, branches closed early so employees could volunteer. That first year, 867 employees gave 2,649 hours to 76 projects. Volunteer Day has since supported 2,443 organizations.
- 2020
On our 30th anniversary, we broadened support to include state-level nonprofit associations and leadership organizations.
- 2022
Following expansion into eight new states, we launched Believe in Local with $1 million in seed funding. Since then, $4 million has supported 160 nonprofits nominated by employees.
- 2025
On November 14, we reached $100 million in philanthropic giving. Employees contributed an additional $13 million through gift and volunteer matching and dedicated 200,000 service hours to our communities.