When Bankers Trust was named one of Iowa’s “Most Giving Companies” in 2024 by the Grateful Giving Foundation, it wasn’t just a feather in the cap of an already respected community bank—it was a resounding affirmation of one of their core values: community. With more than $1 million donated to over 200 local nonprofits and 14,000 volunteer hours logged annually by employees, the bank’s commitment to giving back runs far deeper than corporate social responsibility—it is cultural DNA.

Emily Abbas, Chief Consumer Banking and Marketing Officer at Bankers Trust, summed it up this way: “We truly believe it is part of our responsibility as a community bank to help the communities around us grow and thrive.” And that sense of responsibility isn’t limited to dollars and donations. It’s expressed in the sleeves-rolled-up volunteerism, strategic partnerships, and leadership engagement that define Bankers Trust’s approach to charitable giving.

Giving with Purpose

Bankers Trust’s giving strategy is intentional and deeply rooted in its mission. Funding priority goes to organizations working in community development, cultural inclusion and those where Bankers Trust team members are actively involved. This focus ensures impact: supporting underserved neighborhoods while championing causes close to employees’ hearts.

What makes this approach sustainable? Trust and collaboration. The bank treats nonprofits not as recipients, but as partners. “By bringing together our resources, knowledge and expertise,” Abbas notes, “we can more effectively respond to local needs and work collaboratively to create lasting change.”

Empowering Employees as Community Champions

It’s no surprise that employee engagement is a cornerstone of Bankers Trust’s success. The bank’s biennial employee engagement survey garners participation by 98% of employees, and Bankers Trust’s overall employee engagement scores consistently fall in the top quartile of all companies. Volunteers are celebrated regularly, and those surpassing 30 and 100 hours of service earn special recognition. Additionally, more than 90% of team members participate in the bank’s annual United Way campaign—bolstered by a 50% corporate donation match and daily incentives.

But beyond awards, it’s about connection. The bank’s charitable support often aligns with employees’ volunteer efforts, reinforcing a personal bond between team members and the causes they champion. Employees also participate in nonprofit tours, opportunities to share their ideas, and community events where they proudly represent the Bankers Trust name.

The result? A highly visible, deeply involved workforce. “We often hear ‘Bankers Trust is everywhere,’ and that is our goal,” Abbas shares.

Telling the Stories that Matter

To amplify the impact of their giving and highlight the good happening across Iowa, Bankers Trust launched the Community Difference Makers podcast. Each episode features nonprofit leaders—and often, Bankers Trust employees who serve on those boards—sharing their stories, challenges, and victories.

The podcast isn’t just about awareness. It sparks action. Listeners have gone on to donate, volunteer, and even encourage their own employers to get involved. “Every episode serves as an introduction,” Abbas says. “The real magic happens when those introductions turn into action.”

Lessons for Iowa’s Community Banks

Abbas offers practical advice for community bankers looking to deepen their own charitable impact: start by listening. By tuning in to nonprofit leaders and community needs, banks can make smarter, more meaningful contributions. And when employees feel part of the mission, they become powerful ambassadors in the community.

At Bankers Trust, the philosophy is simple but profound: show up. Whether that’s through sponsoring events, serving on nonprofit boards, or expanding access to homeownership, the bank is consistently finding ways to invest in people—not just with funds, but with time, energy, and expertise.

What’s Next?

Looking ahead, Bankers Trust is continuing its journey with new investments in community development and homeownership education initiatives in partnership with housing nonprofits. As these efforts grow, the bank remains anchored in its role as a community pillar—reliable, responsive, and always present.

Or, as Abbas reflects, perhaps it’s best captured by the timeless wisdom of Mister Rogers: “Look for the helpers.” In a world of uncertainty, Bankers Trust is proud to be one of them—consistent, compassionate, and always close to home.