April is Community Bank Month, a celebration of the independent spirit and unwavering commitment of community banks to help consumers and small businesses achieve their financial goals to create communities of prosperity.

According to HOMEBANK Community Bank President Mary Dickey, community banks obtain most of their core deposits locally and make loans to local businesses and farmers. For this reason, they are often considered to be “relationship” bankers as opposed to “transactional” bankers.

“We are rooted in the community, and we take pride in our reputation as reliable stewards of our depositors’ money and financial first responders in times of need. By dealing openly and honestly with customers and helping them achieve their short and long-term financial goals, we not only ensure their financial prosperity, but our own,” she says.

Dickey encourages residents who utilize large national banks to consider switching their deposits to a local bank.

“We know our customers, and we make decisions right here with an eye toward the future of our community. Our employees are deeply involved in their kids’ schools and their churches, as well as nonprofit organizations. As a bank, we make donations to many worthwhile causes. Our expertise in the local market and our understanding of small business needs sets us apart.

“We’ve all come to realize the importance of shopping local and supporting our local business owners. The same is true of community banks. Shop local, bank local,” Dickey says.

HOMEBANK, Member FDIC, has branches in Mexico, Centralia and Bowling Green. Accounts and loans can be applied for online at www.myhomebank.bank. More information can be obtained by calling toll-free (855) 577-2001.