Wisconsin de novo is community leader
Oak Bank, Fitchburg, Wis., has spent the three years since it was chartered gaining assets as well as the reputation of being a generous-and creative-community contributor.
Last October, the Oak Bank hosted the “Great Pumpkin Give-away.” One thousand pumpkins were delivered to the bank and given away to children. In return, the children were encouraged to bring a cash or office supply donation to the Rainbow Project-a prevention, early intervention, and treatment services program for families with young children affected by child abuse or family violence.
The event also featured a coloring contest, bobbing for apples, face painting and all-you-can-eat hot dogs. Children came from all over the area and the bank raised $2,000 in cash and supplies. Alumni of the Rainbow Project showed up to thank the bank for the effort.
Oak Bank, which plans to host the pumpkin give-away again this October, opened its doors in August of 2000 and has grown to become a $73 million institution.
Oak Bank has been involved in several other community projects. The bank contributed to the creation of “Kid’s Crossing,” a play area locally called the “Dream Playground.”
“We appreciate Oak Bank’s leadership in this community,” wrote Angela Kinderman, executive director of the Fitchburg Chamber of Commerce in a letter to the Independent Community Bankers of America. “I am certain they will continue to exceed our expectations of what it is to be a significant contributor to a vibrant community.”
Copyright NFR Communications Inc Jul 15-Jul 31, 2003
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