Benefit Trust-Mission, Values, Pillars Text
The following content is intended to more clearly articulate the mission, values, and purpose of the Spokane Fire Fighters Benefit Trust. In doing so, it helps define your brand and the promise you make to your members. This work is informed by our collaboration with the Trust and the materials you have provided. We present it for your review and feedback.
Mission Statement
The Spokane Fire Fighters Benefit Trust delivers high quality, sustainable benefits that protect the health, financial security, and long-term wellbeing of our members and their families—today and into retirement—through responsible governance, integrated services, and member driven decision making.
Brand Values
Brand values define what an organization stands for and guide how it shows up in the world. They provide a clear foundation for decision-making, communication, and the consistent experience members can expect.
Member Ownership & Accountability
Our members are the Benefit Trust. Every decision we make reflects our responsibility to steward shared resources wisely, transparently, and in the best interest of our members and their families.
Quality Without Compromise
We are committed to providing a high level of benefits and care while minimizing out-of-pocket costs whenever possible. We believe quality coverage and financial responsibility go hand in hand.
Integrated, Family-Centered Care
Navigating healthcare can be complex, especially when benefits are fragmented. The Benefit Trust prioritizes coordinated services and trusted partners that work together, reducing confusion and ensuring members receive thoughtful, continuous support—from everyday care to future planning.
Union-Rooted Decision Making
Our business decisions reflect union values: fairness, collective responsibility, and sustainability. We balance immediate needs with the long-term health of the Benefit Trust.
Brand Pillars
Brand pillars translate your values into clear areas of focus. They organize your mission into actionable priorities that guide strategy, communications, and the services you deliver to members.
1. Sustainable Benefits
Long-term strength over short-term fixes
- Financially responsible plan design
- Sustainable funding for active and retired members
- Adaptable coverage that evolves with healthcare changes
- Protection of Trust assets for future generations
2. Integrated Support
Coordinated services that reduce friction and confusion
- Medical, dental, vision, pharmacy, disability, VEBA, and life benefits working together
- Strategic partnerships that improve outcomes and access
- Clear pathways for members navigating complex care decisions
3. Member Experience & Service
Respectful, responsive, and reliable
- Clear communication and education
- Timely support when it matters most
- Recognition that members are owners, not users
4. Responsible Governance
Strong leadership, clear oversight
- Trustee-led governance with advisor support
- Transparent decision-making
- Regular review of plan design, partners, and funding
- Union-aligned leadership practices
How to communicate the name
Spokane Fire Fighters Benefit Trust is a very long name for an organization. While it has become very easy for the organization’s culture to refer to itself in writing as SFFBT in communications, it should be discouraged when speaking or writing formally about the company. Trustees and those in frequent touch with members can be more informal and need only to use the words “Benefit Trust” to identify the organization. The use of these two words carries forward the friendly and caring traits that represent the organization’s personality.
Examples:
Phone conversation:
“Hi Bill? This is Chris from the Benefit Trust calling about your question.”
Elevator conversation:
“The Benefit Trust delivers the best benefits to the members of Spokane Local 29.”
Speaking to members:
“Your Benefit Trust is here for you. Whatever you need don’t be afraid to ask.”