First Federal Savings Bank and ICBA Highlight Community Bank Role
EVANSVILLE, Ind. — February 14, 2026 — Leads & Copy — First Federal Savings Bank and the Independent Community Bankers of America® (ICBA) are underscoring the critical role community banks play in helping customers reach their financial objectives and reinvesting in their home neighborhoods.
Courtney Schmitt, VP Marketing Manager at First Federal Savings Bank, stated that relationship banking is fundamental to their business approach. She emphasized that by understanding their customers’ goals, they can bolster their financial futures, leading to collective prosperity.
Community banks are vital stewards of their communities, providing substantial funding to small businesses and agricultural enterprises, as well as aiding families in financing major purchases and securing their financial well-being. Specifically, they channel loans to neighborhoods where their depositors live and work, thereby stimulating the local economy. These banks adopt a comprehensive lending approach, considering various data sources like credit history and spending habits. The Federal Reserve has noted the success and satisfaction of small businesses that seek loans from community banks.
Furthermore, community banks are embracing innovation by collaborating with technology providers, as highlighted by ICBA’s initiatives, to enhance customer experiences. They also demonstrate their commitment through community service, a tradition recognized by ICBA’s National Community Bank Service Awards.
ICBA President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey emphasized the essential role of community banks in local economic development by providing capital access, supporting entrepreneurship, and helping families achieve long-term financial security. By building strong relationships and investing directly in their communities, these banks foster opportunity, stability, and long-term prosperity.
For additional details about community banks, visit banklocally.org. First Federal Savings Bank has local branches. Join the conversation on social media using #BankLocally.
First Federal Savings Bank, established in 1904, operates eight locations in Posey, Vanderburgh, Warrick, and Henderson Counties. It also offers Home Building Savings Bank locations in Daviess and Pike County.
The Independent Community Bankers of America® (ICBA) aims to foster an environment where community banks can thrive by advocating, educating, and innovating. They channel deposits into the neighborhoods they serve, creating jobs, fostering economic prosperity, and fueling their customers’ financial goals and dreams.
Source: First Federal Savings Bank
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