Community Outreach

Neighbors Feeding Neighbors

Launched in 2009 by the First Interstate Foundation, Neighbors Feeding Neighbors was created to focus resources on food insecurity, one of the most pressing issues facing our communities. Now, the Foundation double-matches all time and money donated by employees to charitable organizations that provide food to our neighbors in need. Employees may donate or volunteer on their own or coordinate team activities such as volunteering together at a school’s summer feeding program, fundraising for a local food bank, or filling the boss’ office with cans of food.

Coats and More

First Interstate Bank branches serve as drop-off locations for new or gently used coats, hats, mittens, blankets, and other items that help to warm our neighbors during the winter months. These items are donated to and distributed by agencies in the local communities. In 2024, First Interstate and its branches collected and donated 4,112 pieces of gear, bringing the lifetime total of the program to more than 80,403 items.

Mini Bank Program

Instilling good financial habits starts early, and First Interstate is invested in helping foster financial literacy in youth. The Mini Bank program is a collaboration among the First Interstate Foundation, targeted community schools, and their local First Interstate branch. Students operate a school savings bank through which all students can have an account. The Foundation and branch work together to provide materials and resources to help the students operate the Mini Bank and learn personal financial skills.

Teach Children to Save

First Interstate has been a proud partner of Teach Children to Save since it started in 1997. Coordinated by the American Bankers Association Education Foundation, Teach Children to Save helps young people develop lifelong savings habits. Each year during the month of April, First Interstate employees meet with students and teach them the importance of saving. Bankers take special training and use age-specific lesson plans to effectively reach students.

Get Smart About Credit

Get Smart About Credit Day is an annual event coordinated by the American Bankers Association Education Foundation. Each October, First Interstate bankers volunteer their time and expertise to educate young adults ages 15 to 25 on how to use credit wisely. Our bankers have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of young people throughout our communities and help them navigate this new responsibility.

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Elder Financial Abuse Awareness

Elder financial abuse is a crime that deprives senior citizens of their resources and ultimately their independence. Throughout our footprint, First Interstate Bank employees make efforts to educate people, young and old, about financial elder abuse. Signs of financial abuse include bank activity inconsistent with a person’s financial habits, new acquaintances expressing affection for or residing with an elderly person, changes in property titles, changes to a person’s will, and new powers of attorney.

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Financial Education

First Interstate has partnered with Banzai! to provide our clients with a financial education center to help you learn about money management, the importance of credit worthiness when applying for a loan, how to save for a rainy day and more. The tools provided will arm you with the knowledge and skills you need to make the financial decisions that are best for you and your family.