*First National Community Bank’s blog does not constitute legal, tax, accounting, investment or other professional advice. Recipients should consult their professional advisors for advice.
April is Community Banking Month, recognizing the unique spirit, strength and stability which makes community banks the foundation of their communities. While most people choose a bank based on many different factors such as the products and services they offer, the availability of retail branches and ATMs, savings rates, etc., it is also important to note the value of supporting a community bank’s presence in your community. Moreover, choosing a local community bank can have an impact on your community that indirectly benefits your own financial prosperity, as well as the stability and prosperity of your neighbors. First National Community Bank has outlined 5 benefits to banking locally with a community bank.
- Personalized Service
From greeting customers by name as they walk through the door to being a life-long financial partner who is there with you every step along your financial journey as you open your first checking and savings accounts to purchasing your first home, a community bank offers personalized service and serves as a trusted and valued resource for a lifetime. In addition, community banks have the flexibility to adapt their offerings to the needs of their account holders as they are always keeping the best interest of their customers and community in mind.
- Small Business Focus
Small businesses depend on the support of financial institutions to lay a foundation for their success. The benefits of community banks to local businesses are many and range from the speed and quality of the loan approval process to the collaborative approach small banks exemplify when helping businesses find success. Community banks are invested in their local areas and function more as partners with small businesses who have a genuine interest in their long term success.
- Lower Fees & Competitive Rates
Most community banks offer lower fees and more competitive borrowing rates than what large banks typically offer. This offers a direct benefit to you as the account holder and it also benefits all other account holders in your community by keeping more money in their bank account and in the local community.
- Local Decision Making
Whether it’s a small business loan or other financial products and services, community banks make decisions based on what will best serve their customers and the communities they serve. This translates into products and services that best meet the needs of their customers and a fast and seamless loan approval process.
- Community Involvement
As businesses that support their communities, community banks can be instrumental in creating long-term positive changes for individuals and businesses through charitable programs and other volunteer opportunities that benefit the community. There is a strong focus on acts of service and charity to local individuals and organizations in need. Through charitable giving, employee-sponsored volunteer efforts and other programs, community banks provide direct local support to individuals and causes that face the greatest need in their area. These programs and initiatives strengthen the local economy, lift up community members in need and build a foundation for greater prosperity.
Banking with a community bank is an investment in your community. As your locally owned community bank of choice, the success of your financial future is top of mind. We offer Personal Checking Accounts, Money Market, Personal Savings Accounts, CDs, IRAs, Business Loans, Treasury Management Services, Mortgages, Personal Loans of all shapes and sizes and much more! To learn more about First National Community Bank’s financial solutions, contact us here.
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