An important part of West Bank culture is giving back to the communities we serve. We are proud of the fact that our employees give so many hours of volunteer work and annually serve on over 100 boards and committees of non-profit organizations. West Bank has been honored with the Better Business Bureau Business of Integrity Award, the Greater Des Moines Partnership’s Community Champion Award, and the Iowa Banker’s Association Community Betterment Award which all recognized our leadership in community service.

Community Reinvestment Act (CRA)

You may have heard the term “CRA” which is the Community Reinvestment Act whereby the FDIC is required to examine financial institutions on the basis of how well they meet the credit needs of the communities they serve. Banks are tested in three areas:

• lending,
• investments/donations,
• and services.

Financing projects for urban renewal programs, contributing to organizations like the Polk County Housing Trust to finance construction of affordable housing, and providing grants to a number of shelters and transitional housing programs to aid the homeless are some of the ways West Bank helps the community while meeting CRA requirements. Not all of West Bank’s charitable efforts and volunteer service are chosen based on satisfying CRA, but it is natural for bankers to use their financial expertise in their volunteer activities. West Bankers often serve as treasurer or on financial decision making boards and committees for community organizations. They are called upon to lead financial literacy classes for schools and youth organizations. Through banking practices, charitable giving, and employee volunteerism, West Bank is a community bank that champions our communities.

Annually, West Bank participates in Rebuilding Together Day, helping a low-income family or individual maintain their home and its value. A West Banker serves on the Rebuilding Together board. West Bankers also participate in Habitat for Humanity projects and other neighborhood revitalization efforts.

Economic Development

Financing projects for urban renewal programs, contributing to organizations like the Polk County Housing Trust to finance construction of affordable housing, and providing grants to a number of shelters and transitional housing programs to aid the homeless are some of the ways West Bank helps the community while meeting CRA requirements. Though required by law, funding these kinds of projects are the right thing to do.

Volunteerism

Not all of West Bank’s charitable efforts and volunteer service are chosen based on satisfying CRA, but it is natural for bankers to use their financial expertise in their volunteer activities. West Bankers often serve as treasurer or on financial decision making boards and committees for community organizations.  They are called upon to lead financial literacy classes for schools and youth organizations. Some serve the elderly helping them manage and pay their bills and enabling them to stay in their own homes.

Annually, West Bank participates in Rebuilding Together Day, helping a low-income family or individual maintain their home and its value. A West Banker serves on the Rebuilding Together board. West Bankers also participate in Habitat for Humanity projects and other neighborhood revitalization efforts.

Through banking practices, charitable giving, and employee volunteerism, West Bank is a community bank that champions our communities.