Business Plus Investor Spotlight

L-R: Jason Meyerhoeffer, Rebecca Wildman, Shane Jenkins and Alan Horner

First Federal leverages its position as a Mutual Bank to support its customers and the Southern Idaho community 

First Federal Savings Bank takes pride in being a state-of-the-art financial institution with old-fashioned values for customer care. What makes First Federal unique is that it’s the only Mutual Bank in the state of Idaho. “As a mutual, First Federal is ‘owned’ by its depositors, so our mission is to help enhance their financial well-being,” said Jason Meyerhoeffer, President and CEO of First Federal Savings Bank. “Our interests align closely with those of our customers and communities.”

This commitment to community is embodied in the First Federal Foundation. Established in 2003, the mission of the Foundation is to serve the needs of Southern Idaho by actively seeking community development opportunities that support educational, civic, health, human services, social, and cultural organizations. Twice a year, the Foundation accepts applications and awards grants to fund local non-profits. To date, the First Federal Foundation has contributed more than $1.4 million to deserving organizations.

In 2023 alone, the First Federal Foundation impacted 35 different non-profits and awarded over $110,000 in support. “First Federal takes the community aspect very seriously,” stated Lori Ward, President of the First Federal Foundation Board of Directors. “It is a delight to be able to reflect the needs and requests of Southern Idaho.”

To be selected as a recipient, grant applications must be a capital project and illustrate community impact. Specially, the First Federal Foundation Board analyzes applications for their ability to enhance the wellbeing and quality of life for people who live in the communities served by First Federal Bank. “We have a long list of really worthy, fascinating, impactful grants the Foundation has made,” added Ward.

When notified they would be receiving a Foundation grant this year, Richard Powell, from the Filer Quick Response Unit exclaimed, “This is absolutely amazing and will make such a difference for us and our ability to serve the community, especially when responding to emergencies. Thank you!”

Kim Spiers, Assistant Director of the Valley House, enthusiastically stated, “This grant will give us the opportunity to replace our outdated staff computers, allowing us to better assist individuals needing help.”

“First Federal was actually part of helping to establish Business Plus,” said Meyerhoeffer. “Decades ago, we understood the importance of the organization and how it could impact economic success. That role hasn’t changed, as its work continues to be crucial in driving commercial growth and excellence. We, along with many others, appreciate the ongoing efforts of Business Plus in improving the Magic Valley by actively supporting and growing the business community. Their work helps to ensure long-term prosperity for the region.”

Over the past 30 years Business Plus has joined like-minded business leaders together to grow our economy. Our mission is to ensure that we all play a role in Southern Idaho’s economic growth, business investment, talent recruitment and training.

If you’d like to learn more about Business Plus or become an investor, please contact us at www.businessplusinc.org, email rebecca@businessplusinc.org or call Rebecca Wildman at 208-539-6470