Community Partnerships | First Interstate Bank

We are only as strong as the communities we serve. As such, we are committed to financially supporting and reinvesting in the places we call home through philanthropy and community partnerships. Each year, First Interstate commits two percent of pretax earnings to charitable organizations across our foot print. These funds are distributed through our Foundation and local markets using a collaborative decision making process which addresses the needs of our communities.

Our partnerships encompass many types of organizations— including community sponsorships, support of business and professional associations, as well as nonprofit organizations in arts and culture, civic and community, education, economic development, human services and sustainability.

$5.2M

Donated in 2019

27,790

Employee volunteer hours in 2019

$190K

Donated to feeding programs through Neighbors Feeding Neighbors in 2019

6,000

Winter items collected and donated in 2019 through Coats and More

1 + 1 Program

First Interstate Bank and NewsCenter1 in Rapid City, South Dakota, have teamed up to help schools through the 1+1 Program. Representatives from First Interstate and NewsCenter1 present a classroom with a $500 check to assist the class in attaining an educational goal. The winning class is then featured on the news.

What type of projects are considered for 1+1 awards? Some examples include software and books for special projects, math education materials, choir and band music, science experiment kits, Physical Education supplies, maps, as well as costumes and props for plays.

If you know of a class or program that could use financial assistance, fill out our online application to help us support area classrooms. Please include how the project will help students, how many students will benefit, and specific costs for the project in your application.

The 1+1 Program is available to teachers in the Rapid City, South Dakota area ONLY.

Apply Now

One Class at a Time

First Interstate Bank and local TV stations in Montana have formed a partnership to help schools "One Class at a Time." During the school year, a representative from First Interstate, a TV reporter, and photographer visit classrooms in Bozeman, Helena, and Great Falls. The teacher and class receive a grant check and are featured on the news!

The grant selection committee is passionate about supporting efforts that benefit current and future students. Examples include software and books for special projects, math education materials, choir and band music, science experiment kits, Physical Education supplies, maps, costumes, and props for plays. Consumables or one-time use items are not typically supported.

In the application, please include how the project will help students, how many students will benefit, how it ties into curriculum, and the specific costs for the project. If the cost is more than $250, please explain what resources will be used to make up the difference.

Applications are closed for the school year. Please check back later this fall!

See Past Winners

Each year, First Interstate Bank funds community development loans to provide affordable housing, community services targeted to low- to moderate-income individuals/families, economic development, and the revitalization and stabilization of low and moderate income areas as well as distressed, underserved, or designated disaster areas across our service area.

Community Reinvestment Act