North Salem State Bank FINALIST For 100 years North Salem State Bank has consistently embedded itself into the communities it serves and emphasizes its mission through the tagline, “Where Caring Still Counts.” In 2023 the bank proudly gave more than $500,000 by way of sponsorships and donated over $120,000 to charitable initiatives, with bank employees contributing more than 6,000 volunteer hours. In celebration of its 100th year in business, the bank made special monthly charitable contributions to organizations throughout its footprint deemed crucial for community betterment, such as fairgrounds, police departments, community foundations and more. North Salem State Bank believes that banking is not just about financial transactions but being deeply woven into the fabric of the community. Northwest Bank, Warren, Pennsylvania Northwest Bank fosters a strong sense of community by prioritizing local engagement and social responsibility. In 2023 the bank provided support to several community organizations throughout the state, including the Muncie Mission, South Bend’s Village to Village, Indianapolis Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Fort Wayne Boys and Girls Club and more. Through the Northwest Bank Foundation, more than $1.9 million was contributed to community organizations through charitable giving and sponsorships. The bank sees itself as a community partner rather than just another business in the area. Not only does the bank have the power to help people reach their financial goals, but it also recognizes its ability to improve lives through community service. STAR Bank, Fort Wayne STAR Bank is deeply committed to being good neighbors and supporting its communities in central and northeast Indiana by investing time and money in volunteer help and financial aid. Specifically, the bank’s philanthropy is focused on education, arts and economic development, with about 80% of the bank’s charitable giving falling within those pillars. In 2023 the bank committed more than $400,000 to over 80 organizations across its footprint. Employees are given eight hours of paid volunteer time per year to serve at local organizations in need; 111 employees volunteered over 645 hours to various area organizations in 2023. The bank operates on the core belief of “Growing by Serving,” both corporately and at an individual level. WesBanco Bank, Wheeling, West Virginia WesBanco Bank’s vision is to create greater economic opportunities for the communities it serves that will provide the dignity of affordable housing, the empowerment of financial inclusion, the strength of successful businesses and the sustainability of vibrant communities. Within its Indiana footprint, employees provided technical assistance or financial education totaling over 560 hours with more than 30 organizations, and financial literacy efforts reached 806 students and adults, providing critical education to promote financial inclusion. The bank also partners with governmental and nonprofit agencies to provide special financing programs for home ownership, including down payment assistance programs, as well as flexible funding options for small businesses. Thank you to the IBA-member banks that participated in the 2023 C2C Awards program! Nominations are now open for the 2024 Commitment to Community Awards. Entries will be split across three categories instead of two: ▶ less than $750 million in assets; ▶ $750 million-$3 billion in assets; and ▶ more than $3 billion in assets. Learn more and nominate your bank at indiana.bank/Commitment-Community-Award. FEATURE CONT. 28 HOOSIERBANKER
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