Making a Meaningful Difference: Celebrating Community Banking Month 2024

In honor of Community Banking Month in April, we’re highlighting our efforts in giving back to our communities. Whether it's supporting local businesses, sponsoring community events, or simply being there when you need us, Opportunity Bank is more than a financial institution – we're a partner in progress, establishing and nurturing relationships that go beyond transactions.

Opportunity Bank Staff Serve as Community Leaders

We’ve been at the forefront of our communities across Montana since we first opened our doors in 1922 and are proud to be your local community bank. In 2023, Opportunity Bank staff made meaningful contributions to their communities, volunteering 5,757 hours to 188 organizations and 325 events, averaging almost two business days of volunteerism per employee.

In addition, our staff serve as community leaders, helping local neighborhood projects, serving on boards of our local nonprofits, and offering financial guidance. And, the staff at our branches embody the essence of “of Montana” in the bank’s name, as valued members of their communities, with many having hometown roots.

We released a video at the start of 2024, highlighting how our staff members are making a difference in their communities, reflecting on a year of giving and community service in 2023, and showcasing how our dedicated staff stepped out into their local communities, making a meaningful impact. Watch the video here.

“During my branch visits over the last year, I saw firsthand why Opportunity Bank is successful. It is due to the hard work each of our staff members brings each day, embracing teamwork and collaboration with our fellow colleagues,” said Opportunity Bank President and CEO Laura Clark in the video.

Impacts of Community Banks
Collectively, community banks give more than 60% of all small-business loans and more than 80% of agriculture loans nationwide and contribute tax dollars that help maintain local municipalities, according to the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA). Community banks:

• Are favored by small businesses, earning an 81% net satisfaction score compared to 68% for large banks, 62% for finance companies and 48% for online lenders.
• Are committed lenders with loan growth that has outpaced noncommunity banks for a decade.
• Offer high-touch, high-tech service. This gives consumers access to modern-day conveniences and technical capabilities while maintaining the personal service for which community banks are known.
• Have a track record in helping underserved Americans by providing greater flexibility to low-income and minority borrowers. Community banks serve 93% of majority-minority communities and 96% of low-income designated counties.
• Give back to their communities. Civic service is a way of life for community bankers, as reflected in ICBA’s National Community Bank Service Awards.

For more facts about community banks, click here. Follow the ICBA Community Banking Month conversation on social media with the #BankLocally and #CommunityBankingMonth hashtags.