Community bankers are driven by a spirit of service. Giving back to our communities is simply a part of who we are. But where does that instinct come from? Why is it a part of our DNA, and how has it been shaped over time?
For me, the answer goes back to the ecosystem in which a community bank operates: We live, thrive and face challenges in lockstep with our communities. Just as our communities are shaped by opportunities, issues and events, so, too, are the community banks that support them. In our nimbleness, we’re able to adapt and provide solutions to address urgent requirements and rally around our communities in times of need.
For example, following the devastating floods in central Texas, multiple community banks in the state launched significant dollar-matching campaigns to provide aid. At the same time, the ICBA Foundation, in coordination with the Independent Bankers Association of Texas, activated to support local rebuilding and long-term business recovery efforts. As part of the family of community banking, this is how we respond in challenging times. It’s about stepping up and doing whatever we can…