Bank helps propel fundraising for Carnegie Library restoration

For three years First Federal Bank in Tecumseh has supported the Tecumseh Carnegie Preservation League (TCPL) with donations and fundraising assistance. Although the official commitment time with the TCPL is done, First Federal will continue to assist the group in bringing the former Tecumseh Carnegie Library building back to a functional state.First Federal Bank gave TCPL support when they needed it most, but also received benefits from their involvement.“It gave us an opportunity to build relationships with other individuals and other businesses,” said Wendy Pizana, Assistant Vice President and Tecumseh Banking Manager for First Federal Bank.The goal, according to Pizana, was to be involved in something that would make a difference — it was a good investment to focus on an historical building that benefits the community.Over three years, First Federal Bank donated $12,500 to TCPL, and helped the organization raise $30,000. Community support is important to First Federal Bank because it is part of the community.“It takes a team,” Pizana said. “It takes a whole community to make something like this happen.”Tecumseh Mayor Dick Johnson, who was trying to get more people involved with the restoration of the historical building, originally invited Pizana into the TCPL. “He talked to me about his vision, and why it would be great to have it fixed up and turn it into something that would benefit the community,” said Pizana.Although First Federal Bank worked very closely with TCPL for the past three years, during the same time other groups in the community have benefited from the bank’s generosity.“We focus on many organizations,” Pizana said. “We have for a very long time. We try to spread it out a little bit. We like to support those who support us. We are in the area to do business, but we also give back because it’s the right thing to do. It keeps the community going.”One of the biggest fundraisers for the TCPL is the Holiday WineFest. First Federal Bank has been a strong supporter of the fundraising event. “We’ll help with the community WineFest on a different level,” said Pizana about the change in support. “We will still continue to donate until this project is complete. I will remain in attendance for the board meetings.”First Federal believes the arts need support. “It has always been one of our main focuses,” Pizana said. “Tecumseh is about art. The arts are everywhere. ”The TCPL has benefited from the support of First Federal Bank, as has the rest of the city. “Giving back is really important to help the community to stay strong,” said Pizana. “It takes all of us.”