Evergreen Federal Bank is pleased to donate $50,000 to the Oregon Center for Creative Learning (OCCL) to be used for the expansion of early childhood education programs and Children’s Museum in Grants Pass.

“We believe this donation to the Oregon Center for Creative Learning is vital to our community,” says Bank President Boyd Elkins. “Their expansion into Grants Pass provides much-needed resources for families living in our area.”

With a designation as a childcare desert, only 26% of children living in Southern Oregon have access to early childhood education. Evergreen recognizes the need to expand resources that foster positive learning and social experiences for young children. “This expansion will create a dynamic hub for families from diverse backgrounds to connect, learn, and grow together,” states OCCL Executive Director Sunny Spicer. “Donations like this one from Evergreen not only benefit the children who attend our programs, they have a ripple effect throughout the community—enhancing economic vitality, fostering social cohesion, and building a stronger, more resilient Grants Pass.”

Evergreen Federal Bank is pleased to donate $35,000 to Talent Maker City (TMC), to put towards the completion of their new makerspace. With a desire to revitalize downtown Talent, TMC chose to build on property recently devastated by the Almeda Fire. From their new facility, they plan to expand their STEAM based K-12 programs and offer even more hands-on workshops for makers throughout Southern Oregon.

Evergreen Federal Bank is pleased to donate a 1.79-acre parcel of land to the Grants Pass Area Habitat for Humanity for The Redwood Development Project. This land, created in partnership with Home Bridging, will allow for three single-family homes to be built enabling three more families to become homeowners.

Congratulations to the MacDowell Family
The MacDowell family, who have been selected as home buyers, signed the homeowner agreement in early 2024, bringing hope and excitement to their journey toward homeownership. This new beginning symbolizes a fresh start for both the family and the community, showcasing the power of collaboration and support.

Evergreen Federal Bank is pleased to extend service to Ashland with the opening of their new branch located at 1001 W. Jackson Rd. The branch is the first of its kind in Southern Oregon. Featuring both roof and free-standing solar panels, the building is well-equipped to power the branch and its location with solar-produced energy.

“We are pleased to extend our service to Ashland and the communities of Phoenix and Talent,” says bank president Jeff Hyde. “When we considered how we could make a positive difference, we took note of what is important in that community. We look forward to operating at net-zero and want to be able to help others that have the same goal.”

In celebration of the Ashland branch opening, Evergreen plans to make donations to the Ashland Schools Foundation and the Phoenix/Talent School District #4. In addition, as new members of the Ashland Chamber of Commerce, they look forward to sponsoring events that benefit the community they serve.