Building on a century-long legacy of community support, First Fed took its commitment to the next level in June 2024 by closing its branches for half a day to launch its inaugural Community Spirit Day. The event empowered their team members across the Olympic Peninsula and Puget Sound to roll up their sleeves and volunteer with Habitat for Humanity, demonstrating, once again, that community service is at the heart of First Fed’s mission.
By the end of the day, 147 First Fed employees had logged more than 600 hours of service – helping build homes, organize Habitat stores, and strengthen bonds with local nonprofits. It was more than just a break from the desk. It was a powerful expression of what community banking really means.
First Fed team members volunteer with Ginger’s Closet for Community Spirit Day 2024 in Forks, WA. Courtesy First Fed
“The energy across all our teams was absolutely inspiring,” said Robin Bookter, branch manager at the First Fed Sequim Avenue location. “Seeing our colleagues come together – hammer in hand, paintbrush ready, heart on full display – was a vivid reminder of what sets First Fed apart: our unwavering commitment to serve and uplift our communities.”
That success sparked something bigger.
In 2025, First Fed is evolving Community Spirit Day into a full-fledged Community Spirit Month – an expansion designed to make room for even more volunteers, more impact and more flexibility.
“We’re not just turning a day into a month – we’re deepening our promise,” First Fed Community Engagement Director Donya Alward explained. “This gives us a chance to bring in more team members, rotate which branches are closed, and partner with a wider range of nonprofits. We’re building something lasting, together.”
With this new format, First Fed will stagger participation over several weeks, allowing for more thoughtful coordination while keeping branches available to serve customers throughout the month. It’s a way to balance the bank’s customer-first mission with its equally strong commitment to community service.
Volunteerism has long been embedded in First Fed’s culture. Every employee is given up to three paid days off per year to volunteer for causes they care about. Many employees go above and beyond – some even logging over 100 hours annually. In recent years, team members have collectively contributed more than 28,000 hours of volunteer service across Western Washington.
First Fed team members volunteer with Habitat for Humanity in Port Angeles for Community Spirit Day 2024. Courtesy First Fed
That community focus extends beyond hands-on service. Through its nonprofit foundation, First Fed has contributed millions in grants and sponsorships that support housing, education, health care, food security and more. First Fed Foundation’s giving has translated into thousands of meals served, hundreds of people sheltered, and tens of thousands accessing medical care.
But as Donya emphasized, the real impact is in the moments of connection – working side-by-side with neighbors, sharing stories and helping people feel seen and supported.
“First Fed was built on community,” she said. “Our Community Spirit Month is a reflection of that legacy. It’s not just about doing good – it’s about being present, being part of something bigger, and showing up for the places we call home.”
As Community Spirit Month rolls out in 2025, First Fed employees will once again trade keyboards for tool belts, spreadsheets for volunteer sign-ins – and in doing so, reinforce the bank’s commitment to putting people and purpose first.
First Fed is a Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender.
