Need Help Sharpening Your Financial Skills? In Wall, You Can Bank On It!

Finances. They’re never cut and dry.

Whether it’s trying to plan for a major life event like college, retirement, or buying a home, budgeting for a home improvement project, or riding the economic waves as a business owner, it's easy to feel overwhelmed.

But residents in Wall have an advantage!

We’ve got two local financial institutions—Black Hills Federal Credit Union (BHFCU) and First Interstate Bank (FIB)—that can arm you with the education and knowledge needed to make good financial decisions, keeping your unique needs at the forefront.

“National Financial Literacy Month was officially celebrated in April, but we admire the way our neighborhood banks keep an on-the-ground perspective. Their deep understanding of our community better positions our local businesses and residents for financial success,” said Wall Economic Development Corporation executive director Dr. Rochan Burrell.  

A Top Priority 

Equipping customers with the tools to sharpen their financial knowledge is a top priority for both financial institutions.

“Financial education continues to be a living, breathing thing as technology evolves. Staying informed helps you build strong money habits and sets you up for success in the future,” said BHFCU Wall Branch Manager Mandi Reuwsaat. “We so strongly believe in helping our members achieve financial well-being that we recently partnered with GreenPath Financial Wellness. Providing free personalized guidance on topics like debt counseling, housing services, and credit reviews, GreenPath is helping us expand the individualized service and support we can provide our members.”

At FIB, spotlighting the importance of financial education and understanding money matters is a year-round necessity.

“Financial education is a passion of ours at First Interstate. We love getting out into the community and helping people of all ages increase their financial literacy. In an ever-evolving economic climate, continuous financial education equips people—both individuals and business owners—with the knowledge to make informed decisions, manage risks, and seize emerging opportunities,” said FIB President Brett Blasius. “We also reach people virtually through our online resource center. In fact, we just partnered with Banzai to amplify our financial education tools. These are available online by clicking here. We’ve also expanded our Mini Bank Program, which focuses on the youth in our community. We’re especially excited for our partnership with My First Nest Egg, which focuses on bringing healthy money habits to children ages 3-12.”

The Personal Touch 

Running a small business can be an exciting but challenging endeavor. That’s why BHFCU and FIB offer programs to keep your business's financial wellness in check and pave the way for growth. 
“At BHFCU, we’re uniquely positioned to help small businesses thrive,” said Reuwsaat. “As a premier Small Business Administration (SBA) lender, we have options for small businesses and start-ups alike. We’ve even been recognized for multiple years as the South Dakota lender making the highest number of SBA 7(a) loans.”

Even better? The innovative solutions and personal touches each bank offers for its customers.

“We understand that small business owners face unique challenges that demand flexible, innovative financial solutions,” said Blasius. To support their local entrepreneurs, FIB offers:

• Tailored Loan Programs
• Personalized Relationship Management
• Comprehensive Business Services
• Wealth Management

CommUNITY Support

FIB and BHFCU represent more than just a brick and mortar building; both are committed to supporting the community of Wall throughout the year. 

“Our communities are at the heart of everything we do,” said Reuwsaat. “People helping people is more than a philosophy to us. It’s how we show up for the places we call home. From local non-profits to community events, we’re committed to making a real impact through donations and sponsorships that our members find meaningful.”

“Our commitment to community is at the very core of who we are,” said Blasius. “By supporting local initiatives through sponsorships, grants, donations, and volunteerism, we invest directly in the growth and vibrancy of Wall. These efforts embody our core values: People First & Commitment to Community, Integrity & Celebration of Success, and Creating a Thriving Environment. Our community support is not just an initiative—it’s a long-term investment in the people and values that make us who we are.”