Mike Banks Named NeighborWorks Great Falls Lender of the Year for Sixth Straight Year

Opportunity Bank of Montana is pleased to celebrate Mike Banks, NMLS# 404629, Mortgage Branch Manager for Great Falls and Helena, who has been named NeighborWorks Great Falls’ Lender of the Year for the sixth consecutive year. 

“I have been working with NeighborWorks Great Falls as a lending partner for over 20 years,” said Mike. “It’s been incredibly rewarding to be part of an organization that creates meaningful opportunities for people and families in our community.” 

In addition to supporting borrowers, Mike actively contributes his time and expertise to the organization’s initiatives. He serves on the NeighborWorks Great Falls Home Ownership Center Lending Committee and was recently appointed to its Board of Directors in May. His involvement also includes teaching portions of the organization’s homebuyer education classes, participating in the annual homebuyer fair, and supporting fundraising efforts. 

One program in particular has made a lasting impression on Mike this year. 

“The new HomeStretch program administered by NeighborWorks Great Falls has been a game changer for many homebuyers,” he said. “I feel fortunate to be on the front lines and see how NeighborWorks programs truly help people—it makes it easy to want to support their work.” 

Opportunity Bank is one of the few Montana lenders offering the HomeStretch Down Payment Assistance Program, helping expand access to homeownership to families across Montana. 

Beyond his own contributions, Mike encourages others to find meaningful ways to get involved in their communities. 

“I think it’s important to find something you believe in so you can be an advocate for the organization,” he said. “There are many nonprofit organizations in our communities that are always looking for volunteers.” 

Mike’s sixth consecutive recognition as NeighborWorks Great Falls Lender of the Year is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the trust he has built with both his customers and community partners. Earning this honor year after year reflects the strong relationships he has built and the positive difference he continues to make for homebuyers across Montana.