Celebrating Community Banking Month
Community banks serve the needs of their communities all year long, and in April we shine a little brighter because the month of April is Community Banking Month! As your hometown bank, we want to take a moment to highlight what makes a community bank like Star Bank so special and why banking locally is a decision you should feel great about!
So, what exactly is a community bank? It’s not just a place where you deposit your money or apply for a loan. A community bank is a trusted financial partner that is deeply rooted in the community, serving the unique needs of its neighbors, businesses, and organizations. Community banks are known for their personalized service, friendly staff, and genuine care for their customers. At Star Bank, we take pride in knowing our customers by name and building meaningful relationships that span generations.
But what makes community banks different from the “Megabanks”, Credit Unions, and Fintechs? According to the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA), community banks play a vital role in the economy, especially in rural and underserved areas. In fact, community banks provide nearly 60% of small business loans, helping to fuel the local economy and provide jobs.
When you bank locally, you’ll experience banking as it should be.
- You can trust that your money will be safe and secure with us. We are deeply vested in the success of our communities and will always prioritize long-term benefits over short-term gains.
- Lending decisions are made locally and based on the knowledge of our community and its needs. This means faster turnaround times, flexibility, and a personal touch you can’t find at other types of financial institutions. No phone queues and no long hold times. You might even store your banker’s personal phone number in your cell phone!
- Community banks like Star Bank actively support local initiatives, charities, and events that make our communities come together and thrive. When you bank locally, you’re supporting the growth and development of your community.
Community banks like Star Bank are more than just financial institutions. When you choose to deposit your paycheck and borrow funds from a community bank, you are deciding to support your hometown. Community banks are proud members of the local community, invested in its success, and dedicated to providing exceptional service that goes beyond banking.
As your community bank, Star Bank wants to express our heartfelt appreciation for all our customers. Your trust and loyalty mean the world to us, and we are proud to be your bank of choice. During this Community Banking Month and all year long – let’s celebrate banking locally, supporting our community, and building a brighter future together!