First Financial Federal Credit Union recently donated $25,000 to support the University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center Public Pathways Program, expanding access to healthcare careers and addressing the growing need for skilled nursing professionals in Maryland.
Established in partnership with the Community College of Baltimore County, the Public Pathways Program provides aspiring nursing professionals with a structured pathway to Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) roles. Participants receive clinical training, academic coaching, and guaranteed employment opportunities upon program completion.
First Financial’s funding supports tuition, certification fees, on-site clinical instruction, tutoring, transportation, childcare, and technology assistance – helping more participants complete the program and advance their careers. Participants of the program receive paid learning time and additional support to help make career advancement more accessible for working adults.
“We’re excited to support a program that opens real pathways into healthcare careers,” said James Wheeler, First Financial President. “By helping remove financial and logistical barriers, this initiative creates lasting economic mobility for the communities we serve.”
For more information about belonging to First Financial and how to experience the First Financial difference, visit firstfinancial.org.
First Financial presents a check to the University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center in support of the Public Pathways Program.
First Financial Federal Credit Union is proud to deepen its commitment to the TU Outstanding Young Women’s Leadership Program by expanding its sponsorship to $35,000, benefitting students from both Baltimore County and Carroll County Public Schools in 2026.
The Outstanding Young Women Leadership Program identifies promising high school students from across Baltimore and Carroll County with opportunities to learn leadership skills and gain meaningful experiences to support both their academic and professional lives. Students also have opportunities to connect with professional women within the area, fostering relationships that will guide their future success.
“As a credit union founded by educators, we are dedicated to investing in our students and providing them every opportunity they need to grow,” said First Financial President James Wheeler. “It’s an honor to witness the positive impact this program and others like it have on our community every year.”
In addition to the credit union’s financial commitment, staff members of First Financial play an active role by leading annual financial wellness sessions and volunteering monthly. Through these opportunities, participants grow in both confidence and knowledge as they prepare to become leaders of tomorrow.
For more information about belonging to First Financial and how to experience the First Financial difference, visit firstfinancial.org.
First Financial presents a donation to the TU Outstanding Young Women’s Leadership Program. Pictured from left to right Eric Church, First Financial CEO; James Wheeler, First Financial President; Bob Brenneman, First Financial Chairman of the Board; Dr. Nancy Grasmick, TU’s First Presidential Scholar
First Financial Federal Credit Union awarded $174,000 in scholarships to 58 graduating high school seniors from the class of 2026 through the Credit Union’s Scholarship Program. Each student received a $3,000 scholarship to support their next steps in higher education. Since launching the program in 1998, the credit union has awarded $2.9 million in scholarships to more than 927 students.
The program is open to graduating student members who attend public schools in Baltimore, Carroll, Accomack, Somerset, and Worcester counties, as well as eligible private schools within the credit union’s field of membership. Scholarship recipients were recognized at First Financial’s 73rd Annual Meeting on April 16, 2026.
“We recognize that the transition to higher education is an important step for students and their families,” said Cindy Jones, Vice President of Growth and Engagement. “Our scholarship program offers financial support during this meaningful time and reinforces our commitment to strengthening the communities we serve.”
For details on First Financial outreach in the community, visit firstfinancial.org/community. To learn more about being a part of the First Financial difference, visit firstfinancial.org.
First Financial Federal Credit Union (FFFCU), a member-owned credit union focused on giving back to its community, concluded 2025 with $74,500 in donations and support for its community partners across Baltimore, Carroll, Somerset, and Worcester counties. In total, FFFCU donated more than $300,000 to partner groups and organizations throughout the year.
“At First Financial, we have a long-standing commitment to investing in our community,” said Cindy Jones, First Financial Assistant Vice President of Business & Community Partnerships. “By giving back through both financial contributions and active volunteer efforts, we are able to support local organizations doing meaningful work and help create a lasting, positive impact across our community.”
FFFCU recently participated in the WBAL Radio Kids Campaign live event in Baltimore County, where the credit union presented a $10,000 check to support Baltimore youth. The campaign provides academic scholarships and grants while also donating toys and essentials to children and families during the holiday season.
FFFCU also contributed $10,000 to Richcroft, Inc. in support of their newest initiative, “The Kahlert Café – A Farm to Able Richcroft Enterprise.” This inclusive café hires and trains individuals with disabilities in food service, customer engagement, and more. The initiative is designed to empower individuals by offering meaningful employment in a supportive environment.
Earlier in the fall, FFFCU donated $12,000 to Carroll County Food Sunday (CCFS) to purchase holiday hams provided by Hahn’s of Westminster for families in need. Carroll County Food Sunday serves more than 500 families in the Westminster area by providing weekly nutritious grocery packages.
In November, FFFCU continued its partnership with the Maryland Council on Economic Education (MCEE) through a $42,500 sponsorship. This contribution will help expand financial education initiatives across Baltimore County Public Schools, Carroll County Public Schools, Worcester County Public Schools, Somerset County Public Schools, and many Baltimore-area private schools.
For more information about belonging to First Financial and how to experience the First Financial difference, visit firstfinancial.org.
First Financial Federal Credit Union presents a check to the Maryland Council on Economic Education to support financialeducation initiatives across schools.
First Financial Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce its merger with Cecil County School Employees’ Federal Credit Union (CCSEFCU), an education-based credit union in Elkton, Maryland. The merger was approved by the CCSEFCU membership on December 3, 2025.
CCSEFCU serves the employees of Cecil County Public Schools as well as local healthcare and educational organizations in their county. “We are excited for the opportunities this merger brings to CCSEFCU members. First Financial offers a wide variety of financial products and convenient services, as well as an abundance of financial wellness resources for our members and community,” stated James Raab, CCSEFCU Board Chair. As a result of the merger, First Financial adds a sixth county school system to its field of membership which also includes more than 30 hospitals/healthcare organizations, and over 175 partner groups within their service region.
“We appreciate the confidence the CCSEFCU leadership has placed in First Financial to be the credit union of the future for their members,” said James Wheeler, First Financial President. “We look forward to bringing the benefits and value of First Financial membership to their members and are excited to be a part of the Cecil County community.”
First Financial will continue to operate the CCSEFCU branch located on the campus of the Cecil County Board of Education. The legal merger and final conversion date has been set for February 1, 2026.
For more information about belonging to First Financial and how to experience the First Financial difference, visit firstfinancial.org.
On October 29th, First Financial Federal Credit Union recognized and celebrated Baltimore County Public School (BCPS) educators by awarding ten $1,000 Putting Students First Grants during a ceremony at its Administrative Center. This marks the third year of a five-year commitment to the BCPS grant program.
The Putting Students First Grant was established by First Financial in partnership with the Education Foundation of BCPS to support educator-led initiatives that enhance student learning. Funds are used to create engaging educational experiences and provide classroom resources tailored to student needs.
Grant recipients for the 2025–2026 school year include BCPS educators from Dumbarton Middle School, General John Stricker Middle School, Glyndon Elementary School, Hawthorne Elementary School, Hernwood Elementary School, Kenwood High School, Milbrook Elementary School, Sollers Point Technical High School, Windsor Mill Middle School, and Woodholme Elementary School.
“As an education-based credit union, First Financial is dedicated to ensuring schools and students have access to the resources they need to thrive,” said Stephanie Peltzer, First Financial VP/Chief Marketing Officer. “It is our honor to recognize the creative and impactful work of the educators in our community and celebrate the shared commitment to education between our organizations.”
For details on First Financial outreach in the community, visit firstfinancial.org/community. To learn more about being a part of the First Financial difference, visit firstfinancial.org.
Representatives from Baltimore County Public County Schools (BCPS), the Education Foundation of BCPS, and First Financial FCU gather at the Putting Students First Grant Recipient Celebration
First Financial Federal Credit Union awarded a $100,000 Legacy of Leadership Grant to Baltimore County Public Schools (BCPS) in support of professional development programs and in recognition of the credit union’s long-standing partnership with the school system. The grant also serves to honor the leadership of First Financial Youth Outreach Manager, Cindy Jones, as she completes her tenure as President of the Education Foundation of BCPS.
“The First Financial FCU Legacy of Leadership Grant is a tremendous investment in Team BCPS staff and will provide us with an opportunity to strengthen and expand our training and development programs,” said BCPS Superintendent Dr. Myriam Rogers. “We are grateful for the 70+ years of dedicated partnership and support and thank First Financial FCU for their unwavering commitment to Team BCPS staff, students, and families.”
The grant funding will support the Central Staff Induction Program (CSIP) and ASPIRE BCPS Professional Leadership Development Program as well as future leadership training opportunities. The grant is an important affirmation of the value of leadership in education. As the credit union founded by and for Baltimore County Public Schools more than 70 years ago, First Financial is dedicated to supporting BCPS educators and professionals in their leadership development to ensure quality education for students and to create a stronger, more vital community.
“Our storied history with Baltimore County Public Schools is a testament to the power and importance of school and business partnerships,” said VP/Chief Marketing Officer, Stephanie Peltzer. “This grant will support vital training and professional enrichment for future BCPS leaders and pays tribute to Cindy Jones, Youth Outreach Manager, who is an industry leader in service to both educators and students.”
First Financial, a member-owned credit union serving school systems, businesses, and hospitals, within Maryland and now Virginia, strives to deliver service excellence while providing their members with products, tools, and resources to live financially well. In addition to offering numerous rewards programs benefitting their members, the credit union also supports their local community through volunteerism and financial donations to partner groups such as Baltimore, Carroll, Worcester, Somerset, and Accomack County Public Schools, Baltimore-area hospitals, and community service organizations.
To learn more about being a part of the First Financial difference, visit firstfinancial.org or call Member Services at 410-321-6060.
The Board of Directors of First Financial Federal Credit Union has announced the appointment of James C. Wheeler as President effective October 1, 2025. In his new role, Wheeler will lead all aspects of First Financial FCU daily operations and strategic growth initiatives as well as oversee the senior leadership team.
Eric Church will remain in his position as Chief Executive Officer of the $1.3 billion financial institution.
Wheeler most recently served as the credit union’s Senior Vice President/Chief Operations Officer (COO). In his role as COO, he was responsible for all member-facing teams, including branch services, contact centers, account services and digital banking, as well as IT, risk and compliance, administrative, and facilities services.
“James has been an integral part of First Financial’s growth and innovation over the last decade,” stated Bob Brenneman, FFFCU Board Chairperson. “His passion for service excellence and servant leadership mentality will ensure First Financial remains the credit union of choice for our current members and the next generation of members to come.”
Prior to his role as COO, Wheeler held numerous leadership positions within First Financial, including Chief Risk Officer and Chief Information and Risk Officer and worked in the financial services industry for more than 20 years. As a staunch advocate for professional development and leadership training, he serves as executive sponsor and mentor for the Limitless Leaders Employee Resource Group, supporting the next generation of credit union leaders. Additionally, he is active in professional organizations such as the Cybersecurity Advisory Board at CCBC, America’s Credit Union Councils, InfraGard (FBI), Maryland Association of Bank Security, and MEMA’s Private Sector Integration Program.
“I am honored to have been chosen as the next President of First Financial and look forward to continuing the credit union’s focus on financial wellness for our members, business partners, and community,” commented Wheeler. “First Financial is well-positioned for strategic expansion throughout Maryland with our innovative suite of product and service solutions; I’m excited for the opportunities that lie ahead.”
A retired combat veteran, Wheeler served over 24 years in the United States Marine Corps and Maryland Army National Guard, including deployments in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. His military service shaped his expertise in communications, finance, information security, technology, operations, and risk management.
Wheeler earned a B.S. in Information Assurance from the University of Maryland University College and holds numerous professional certifications including CISSP, PMP, and CompTIA Security+. He resides in Kingsville, Maryland with his family.
First Financial Federal Credit Union honored representatives from each Delmarva school system with a $500 check and gift baskets for their respective Teachers of the Year at the Delmarva Shorebirds Teacher Appreciation Night held on September 5th. This is the third consecutive year the Credit Union has sponsored the event, held at Franklin P. Perdue stadium, recognizing the important work of educators in the Delmarva region.
First Financial donated to each local school system, including: Accomack, VA; Caroline, MD; Delmar, DE; Dorchester, MD; Queen Anne’s, MD; Somerset, MD; Talbot, MD; Wicomico, MD; and Worcester, MD for a combined total of $4,500. As a credit union founded by educators, First Financial is deeply committed to supporting local schools as they prepare our future generations for continued success.
“It’s always a pleasure hosting Teacher Appreciation Night with the Delmarva Shorebirds and recognizing our unsung heroes in education,” said Eric Church, First Financial President and CEO. “We’re proud to support the wonderful school systems of the Eastern Shore and help contribute to a successful school year for students and educators alike.”
About First Financial Federal Credit Union: First Financial Federal Credit Union serves the employees, students, and parents of the Baltimore, Carroll, Somerset, and Worcester County Public School systems, as well as the employees and families of many area businesses, hospitals, private schools, and colleges. The Credit Union’s product offerings include free checking, online and mobile services, auto loans, credit cards, and home loans. Don’t Just Bank, Belong; visit www.firstfinancial.org for details.
First Financial Federal Credit Union presents the checks and gift baskets to each Delmarva area school system and their Teachers of the Year.
In preparation for the 2025-26 academic school year, First Financial Federal Credit Union has partnered with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Carroll County to donate $34,568 in support of their Power Hour program. This after-school initiative will provide homework support, tutoring, and creative learning opportunities beyond the classroom.
This donation will enable the Clubs to hire tutors from fellow First Financial partner McDaniel College, who will provide homework support, one-on-one tutoring, and small group study sessions throughout the academic year.
As a credit union founded by educators in 1953, First Financial understands the importance of supporting our youth in their academic journey. This program not only provides much-needed academic support but also teaches kids resilience and grit to overcome any challenges that may come their way.
“Programs like Power Hour offer students the academic enrichment they need to succeed,” said Eric Church, First Financial CEO/President. “At First Financial, we’re proud to help make those opportunities more accessible for youth in our community.”
