First Financial Federal Credit Union has donated $38,664 to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Carroll County‘s Power Hour program for the 2026-27 school year, increasing its support by nearly $4,100 from last year. This after-school initiative provides local students with homework support, tutoring, and engaging learning opportunities beyond the classroom.
The donation will help the Boys & Girls Clubs of Carroll County hire tutors from McDaniel College, a First Financial community partner, who will support students through homework help, one-on-one tutoring, and small-group study sessions throughout the school year.
Power Hour gives students a dedicated time and place to focus on their schoolwork while receiving additional academic support. The program helps students strengthen their academic skills, build confidence, and stay engaged in their learning outside of school hours.
As a credit union founded by educators in 1953, First Financial has long supported programs that help students learn, grow, and succeed. By increasing its contribution this year, the credit union continues its commitment to creating opportunities that make a lasting difference for local youth.
“The Power Hour Program has become an important resource for students and families in Carroll County,” said James Wheeler, First Financial President. “Our increased support will help more students benefit from the program, and we’re grateful to be part of a partnership that continues to make a difference in our community.”
For details on First Financial outreach initiatives, visit firstfinancial.org/community. To learn more about being a part of the First Financial difference, visit firstfinancial.org.

First Financial Federal Credit Union presents a check to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Carroll County for the Power Hour program.
First Financial Federal Credit Union (FFFCU), a member-owned credit union that prioritizes giving back, concluded 2023 with over $35,000 in donations and support to several local community partners within the Baltimore, Carroll, Somerset, and Worcester County areas. Overall, First Financial donated over $300,000 to community partners and organizations throughout 2023.
Most recently, FFFCU joined WBAL Radio for their annual WBAL Kids Campaign live event in Baltimore County. The credit union was thrilled to present an $8,500 check to the campaign that benefits Baltimore youth with academic scholarships, summer programs, and grants to provide toys and basic needs for children and their families over the holiday season.
Additionally, First Financial donated $9,500 to purchase holiday hams, provided by Hahn’s of Westminster, to Carroll County Food Sunday (CCFS). Carroll County Food Sunday provides weekly nutritious grocery packages to over 550 families served between the Westminster, Eldersburg, and Taneytown locations.
To continue the holiday giveback, First Financial participated in the annual gift drive for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Carroll County (BGC). FFFCU employees adopted 26 children in the gift drive and donated $850 towards programs at the Clubs.
First Financial also donated $2,500 to each Families in Transition (FIT) programs at Worcester County Public Schools and Somerset County Public Schools. The FIT program provides homeless students with access to clothing, food, transportation assistance, and occasional temporary housing.
The Judy Centers that work in conjunction with the Somerset and Worcester County public school systems each received $2,500 from First Financial. The Judy Centers provide support to disadvantaged families with young children and connects them with local service providers for resources such as adult education, health screenings, engagement activities, parenting classes, etc.
In November, First Financial donated $10,000 to new partner, the Dr. Nancy Grasmick Leadership Institute. Funding was used to provide leadership programming and resources to Baltimore County Public School professionals.
To learn more about being a part of the First Financial difference, visit firstfinancial.org or call Member Services at 1-800-903-3328.