Many banks claim to have "excellent customer service" or to be invested in their community. But how many can walk the walk and support these claims with facts?
Have you heard about our recent Banky™ Award:
Community Icon, First Bank, Named Among the Top Extraordinary Banks in the Nation
Sterling, Kan., April 21, 2022 – First Bank, a local Rice County icon, was just named among the top extraordinary banks in the United States by The Institute for Extraordinary Banking™.
First Bank was recognized with the Institute’s Banky™ Award for its commitment to strong community banking. This recognition is given to top community banks across the country to help people find the best banks in their communities.
“Being named a Top Extraordinary Bank is an acknowledgement of things I have already known for years,” said Jeff Laudermilk, First Bank President and CEO. “I know there is something special about the First Bank family, including our employees and our customers; they are our most important assets. It is because of them that we have grown through our long history to be one of the largest and strongest banks in the area.
Having been selected by independent banking industry experts for our philanthropy, above-and-beyond customer service, leadership, internal culture and financial literacy education is confirmation that we’re extraordinary. We will continue to build on this distinction and strive for better. Through all of this, the goal of First Bank has remained constant – protect our depositor’s funds and assist our communities to grow and prosper.”
The Extraordinary Banking™ Awards highlight the vital yet often overlooked role that local community banks play in our nation’s economy. Without a vibrant local banking industry, our small businesses and families often lack the have-your-back support of a true community bank that makes communities really thrive.
The Extraordinary Banking™ Awards recognize the best of what community banks offer to our cities, towns, and nation: a true commitment to the success of the small businesses and local community they serve.
Roxanne Emmerich, Chair and Founder of The Institute for Extraordinary Banking™, proclaimed during the awards ceremony: “Community banks are the backbone of America. They are what keeps a community thriving. When a community bank leaves a community, small businesses often struggle to stay, and jobs leave. Every robust community has a strong community bank that understands how to help that community thrive and grow.”
We are here for all of your banking needs. First Bank is proud of the services we offer and the way that we offer them. Out communities are filled with customers that know our heart is to help.That is why we have generational repeat customers.
But don't take our word for it; here's what our customers have to say.
Customer Testimonials
“You guys have that small town feel with big town professional services. When you go in everyone knows you and appreciates your business. My father and our kids have accounts with you. It’s really generational banking.”
- Chad H
"In 1978, when I was only 16 years old, I came into bank with my father to get a loan for cattle. My hands were shaking as I signed. The bank knew me, invested in me, and they guided me. I grew my cattle, grew my land, and grew my loans. Now with success, the other banks who didn’t want to take a risk on me have come calling with lower interest rates. I just tell them ‘No thanks’, I’ll stick with the bank that stuck with me. I’m staying local where I see staff serving on boards of local groups, where we invest in the communities that made us. I’m good right where I’m at, with First Bank."
- Todd Z
"When I call on First Bank, I know they will provide me with timely and accurate information. They are always ready to do business and provide me with valued suggestions to aid in my decision making. Because of this I have been doing business with First Bank since Jesus was born. No need to move. Grateful for the longevity of the staff and consistent relationships they provide me."
- Gene Z
"When Coronavirus hit, we were like most businesses, totally unprepared to face the uncertainty of what was to come. We were forced to lay off four employees and faced the likelihood of more layoffs. I read about the PPP loan but wasn't sure how to get started. Then came an email from First Bank. When questions came up, I got quick responses and was ready to submit my application on time. When the form was changed at midnight the night before, the corrected application was sent and it was submitted right away. We were approved and getting that loan was a game changer. Because of the funding from the loan, we were able to rehire all employees and make it through uncertain times. In 2021, I was contacted by First Bank and I was qualified for a second PPP loan. It is a relief to have this protection with all the uncertainty facing small businesses. Because we have built such a strong relationship over 18 years, First Bank is our only choice for banking."
- Anonymous Customer
“My husband and I found ourselves late in life. When he died, I was devastated and unsure of where to turn. First Bank stepped up in a big way. They guided me and helped coordinate with our attorney to make sure our affairs were in order. The staff went above and beyond what was expected. Knowing that I struggle to write with my right hand, they educated this technologically challenged customer how to bank online. When my identity was stolen, First Bank was the one to catch it and notify me before I saw it myself! When I call almost weekly to ask questions and check balances, they never treat me like a burden. They are happy to talk and treat me like family. When I moved away, I was able to keep banking with First Bank because of the care and dedication they provided. I tell everyone about First Bank and encourage my friends to bank there.”
- Barbara C
