As the Branch Administrative Officer, I am privileged to witness firsthand the profound impact community banks have on our customers and the communities we serve. In this article, I would like to share with you the unique contributions of Osgood Bank to the growth and prosperity of our communities, reflecting the values of personalized service, local decision-making, and a steadfast commitment to financial education.
Fostering Personal Connections
At Osgood Bank, we pride ourselves on nourishing personal connections with our customers. It is our goal to ensure our customers feel valued, heard, and understood. Banking touches all aspects of life, from your first savings account to planning for retirement. For that reason, it is important for our customers to know that they can come to us in times of triumph or tragedy and we will do our best to help them overcome obstacles and reach their goals.
Local Decision-Making
One of the distinct advantages of Osgood Bank is our ability to make local decisions as it allows us to respond quickly to the needs of our customers. In the evening of Memorial Day 2019, one of our communities was struck with a tornado that displaced many families. Osgood Bank jumped into action providing those families with emergency funding to help bridge the gap between the timing of their need and when their insurance policies would provide relief. During the Covid-19 pandemic, our teams worked tirelessly to ensure our customers had the support they needed to get through including adaptations to business operations and swift action on business relief funding. Most recently, our Indian Lake office was directly in the path of a devastating tornado and we are prepared to help our community come back strong.
Contributing to Local Economic Growth
Osgood Bank plays a pivotal role in contributing to the economic growth of the communities we serve. Our support for small businesses and entrepreneurs creates a ripple effect, generating employment opportunities and bolstering the local economy. When our team helps a local manufacturer expand or a franchisee open another location, we become part of the larger economic landscape and economic stimulation. Working closely with their employees we also provide personal financial growth and help them with deposit and lending needs as well.
Championing Financial Literacy Initiatives
Educating our customers and the community at large is something we are passionate about. From collaborating with the local schools to webinars and workshops, our efforts are aimed at empowering individuals to make informed financial decisions. For example, Osgood Bank has partnered with Banzai to provide a financial literacy curriculum to area schools which will give financial education to the next generation to help them be successful. Our experts have also developed comprehensive guides to help people through complex processes, such as first-time homebuyers, and provide peace of mind through an overwhelming process. We enjoy our partnership with a local nonprofit organization, where our teams take turns visiting with community members to offer free financial education in hopes that it can help them overcome their struggles and set a course for success.
Active Community Engagement
Beyond banking transactions, Osgood Bank is an active participant in community events and initiatives. You’ll often see our team volunteering at local events, county fairs, food pantries, and more. Many locals know Osgood Bank for our tailgating events at our local schools where we gather for food and fun before the home football game. The one in Fort Loramie celebrates its 20th year this year! These events are successful thanks to the dedication of our team and the generosity of the local businesses we partner with to provide food, drinks, entertainment, and free t-shirts to attendees.
Stability and Trust in Local Communities
Osgood Bank, with its local focus and commitment to community, provides stability and trust during both calm and turbulent times. I see the importance of this trust in fostering lasting relationships with customers. Our branches in Ohio serve as pillars of strength, embodying reliability and support for our community members. In a time when we see big banks working for themselves, Osgood Bank is committed to staying locally owned and differentiating ourselves from the bland financial landscape by being an active member in the communities we serve.
I am fortunate to serve as the Branch Administrative Officer for Osgood Bank across Osgood, Fort Loramie, Chickasaw, and Indian Lake and it is more than a role; it's a privilege. Our impact extends beyond financial transactions. It's about fostering personal connections, being a catalyst for economic growth, championing financial literacy, and actively engaging with our communities. At the heart of Osgood Bank in a small Ohio town, I am thrilled to be part of a financial family that not only prioritizes our customers but also actively contributes to the joy and prosperity of the wonderful communities we call home. I look forward to seeing how Osgood Bank can help you reach your goals, come in and visit us today.
