CITIZEN’S FIRST BANK
Community service has always been at the heart of the Citizens First Bank culture. They call it the “Culture of the Heart.” In fact, one of their three key values is “Service to one another, our customers and our community.” Their staff is involved throughout the community in a variety of civic, cultural, charitable and religious organizations including 21 different organizations and agencies. In addition, they have team members involved in coaching youth sports teams, volunteering in churches and schools and serving in local government.
Recently, when they celebrated their 100th anniversary they chose the theme “Celebrating 100 years with 100 Good Deeds.” Their intent was to celebrate this milestone year in a unique and special way by giving back to the community that had supported them for 100 years. At the end of their celebration year, they had completed 113 deeds and touched the lives of thousands throughout the community.
Good Deeds included numerous collection efforts such as used books for schools, canned food drive, balls and toys for the holidays, box tops for education, shoes for Soles for Souls, and toiletries for Marines overseas. Additionally, they helped to inventory the Habitat for Humanity warehouse, served in the Community Soup Kitchen, participated in Teens for Jeans and even made snacks for their nearby fire station. One of the crowning and most emotional deeds was the yard clean-up for a World War II Veteran that included the presentation of a new US flag to him by the staff of Congressman Phil Gingrey.
When completed according to one staff member. “It boosted morale-lifted spirits in a down economic time—gave back to the community in a non financial way with heartfelt, genuine compassion.
According to bank leadership, “each and every day we are encouraged to think of how our actions not only reflect upon the bank, but how we impact this community. Serving our community is more than a philosophy or idea – it is our responsibility and a trust we are determined to keep.”