As a keynote speaker, I’ve spoken at many venues throughout the country. But this last weekend in Crawfordville, Indiana, with a population of about 16,000 people, I witnessed an exceptional event put on by Hoosier Heartland State Bank. Each year they put on the highly anticipated “Shared Values Award” banquet, which honors both employees and community members. I was blown away by the fact that they gave away $34,000 in one night to non-profit organizations in their community. With the Mayor in attendance along with employees and community members, there were about 200 people at the banquet.
After I kicked off the event with “The Incredible Power of Laughter,” they began with the “Mission, Vision, & Values” awards. Employees in this community-based bank are voted on in each of the three categories mentioned by co-workers. The employees choose a non-profit organization of their choice and the top three finalists all win something for their charity. $5,000 for first place, $2,500 for second place, and $1,000 for third place. I was truly moved by the generosity and heartfelt compassion each employee had for his or her charity.
Earlier in the year, 70 non-profit organizations were nominated by community members. I’m sure it was a hard decision for the committee to choose the top three. First place, winning $5,000, was taken by VMHMC, “Volunteers For Mental Health in Montgomery County.” Second place, winning $2,500, went to “Journey of Hope,” a cancer ministry of Montgomery County, and third place and $1,000 went to “Montgomery County 4-H.”
After talking to many bank employees, I was amazed at the high retention of its employees. John Maxwell says, “Everything rises and falls on leadership.” Without a doubt, the excellent leadership by bank President Brad Monts, with 30 years at the bank, board members, and his leadership team members exemplifies what leadership is really all about. And that is serving people, and especially those in the community.
Since they began this “Shared Values Awards” eight years ago, the bank has increased in members and revenue. Not surprisingly, since they put people in the community at the forefront and treat them like family, which of course, is also one of their core values. The model set by Hoosier Heartland State Bank is certainly one to follow.
Have a great week! Desi
The Attitude Adjuster