First Bank Financial Centre Delivers Holiday Cheer in Ozaukee County

This December, as part of its “Holi-Days of Giving” program, First Bank Financial Centre (FBFC) delivered much-needed holiday cheer to a local woman, a pastor and two area nonprofits serving SE Wisconsin.

In Grafton, Carolynn Steen and Cedarburg Robotics were honored.

Carolyn Steen, mother of two children, Paige (22 years) and Brandon (19 years) has been suffering from terminal cancer for over a year.  Prior to her diagnosis, Carolyn was very active in the community and in her hometown of Grafton. Carolyn’s nominator, Kayleigh, mentioned, “This family has been through so much and has constantly shown strength. Several years ago, Carolyn’s husband passed away due to health complications, and even after Carolyn’s diagnosis, they still open their home to friends and family. I could not imagine a woman more deserving of some much needed holiday cheer. Carolyn and her two children received a memorable dinner at a Bartolottas restaurant and a limo ride to get them there.

A $500 donation was provided to The Cedarburg High School Robotics Team #3197. The organization, known as the HexHounds, promotes the study and application of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) in a fun and interesting way through involvement in FIRST (For the Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology).

“I am humbled to have had the honor to present a gift that will serve as a special family memory to a woman who is constantly giving to others as well as a gift to support an organization that encourages the creativity of our community’s youth”, said Jenny DeCeuster, FBFC Grafton Branch Manager.

In Mequon, Peter Kelm and COPE Services were honored.

Pastor Kelm, a Cedarburg pastor and father, has been diagnosed with cancer. The Mequon branch surprised him with a $500 gift card toward a family vacation in Door County.

The Mission of COPE Services is to provide emotional support, referral and services crisis intervention to Ozaukee County and the Greater Milwaukee area. This mission is accomplished by a 24-hour telephone helpline, a website, a referral database, educational materials and programs.

“We’re thankful our “Holi-Days of Giving” program could help out a local pastor who is facing tough times and support a nonprofit that serves our community,” says Kris Barger, Grafton Branch Manager.

During the first three weeks of December, FBFC’s 13 suburban branches delivered $500 checks to 13 nonprofits, and gifts valued up to $500, to 13 families or individuals as part of its “Holi-Days of Giving” program.