WyoTowne students learn about philanthropy. ©BGCCW2016

In the weeks leading up to their day running Young AmeriTowne:WyoTowne, students studying financial literacy in their classrooms learn about personal and business finance, including profit and loss, savings and investment. They also learn about philanthropy and giving back to the community. Representatives from WyoTowne and First Interstate Bank made a special presentation to three Central Wyoming charities on July 6 at the All American Center.

Representatives from the Make a Wish Foundation, Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming, and the Food Bank of the Rockies are presented donations from First Interstate Bank. ©BGCCW2016

Presented with a list of charities, students who participated in WyoTowne this past spring voted on the organizations they would like to support. The top two vote getters, along with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming, were the options for students to contribute their Towne money at the “Donation Station” located in Towne Square. The students chose the Make a Wish Foundation and Food Bank of the Rockies. Each child decided whether to donate or not. It was not mandatory. Among the over 400 kids who participated in Towne, more than $2,100.00 was dropped into the donation station receptacle.

©BGCCW2016

“What we can teach children who participate in WyoTowne is that philanthropy is giving what you have, whether it be time, money, or resources for the betterment of your community. It’s not how much or what you give, but rather the feeling that you are contributing to an important cause and helping others in need,” said Brian Stack, Vice President, First Interstate Bank.

As the presenting sponsor of Towne Square, First Interstate Bank, on behalf of the children who participated in Towne, will make a donation to each of these charities equaling 10% of the money donated in Towne.