Relationships Matter

The Bank of Elk River and The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) are partnering together to promote the virtues of community banks and urge consumers to consider a relationship with a hometown lender—rooted in their community and vested in their customers’ financial success.

“Community banks have always been a trusted source of knowledge and support for customers and financial stewards of their communities," ICBA President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey said. "When you bank locally, you’re not only making an investment in your financial future, but you are also building a life-long relationship that helps create generational wealth and creates communities of prosperity. ICBA is honored to represent the nation’s community bankers who make a true difference in their community every day.”

ICBA and The Bank of Elk River remind customers that community banks are on your corner, in your corner, and fund more than 60 percent of small businesses and more than 80 percent of agricultural loans, while also helping local families finance major life purchases and build financial security. Community banks:

• Respect and honor community ties. They channel loans to neighborhoods where their depositors live and work, which helps keep the local economy churning.
• Are relationship lenders, taking a holistic approach to lending that considers numerous sources of information, including credit history and discretionary spending.
• Understand and embrace local businesses. The Federal Reserve has repeatedly found that small businesses that apply for loans with community banks are more successful and satisfied.
• Give back. Serving local communities is a part of the community bank tradition as reflected in ICBA’s National Community Bank Service Awards.

• Are innovative. They partner with innovative technology providers, as showcased through ICBA’s ThinkTECH initiatives, to deliver high-tech, high-touch customer experiences

“At The Bank of Elk River we know you have a choice in whom you entrust your hard-earned money and are grateful for the chance to earn your business and help you reach your financial dreams,” said Julia Schreifels, Director of Marketing and Communications at The Bank of Elk River. “We are proud to serve your financial interest and pledge to do our very best to ensure the continued financial health of your friends and neighbors.”