Stephenson National Bank and Trust Revenue and Competitors

Employees of The Stephenson National Bank & Trust, Marinette, Wisconsin, have pledged to provide over 4,000 hours of community service in 2002, increasing their 2001 commitment by nearly 1,000 hours. More than 60 area organizations and activities including school and church groups, community events, boards of directors, and service clubs enjoy the commitment of bank employees who find the time in their already busy lives to provide their support and expertise. "Someone once said that charity begins at home, but it shouldn't stay there," said bank president John K. Reinke. "I'm not surprised that this group time and again extends their energies well beyond their own lives to help others. A lot of financial institutions say they are community banks, but we practice it!" The emphasis on community service is a long-standing tradition at the bank. Last year, the bank named a building they own "The Stephenson National Bank & Trust Community Center." The Hall Avenue landmark is their rent-free home to a number of non-profit organizations: TriCities Area United Way, Habitat for Humanity, Infolink, M&M Respite Care, Twin Counties Free Clinic administrative office, and The Clothes Vault. Some activities have become traditions at SNBT. National Teach Children to Save Day has grown into a bank-wide event. This past April 26 employees visited 62 public and private elementary classrooms teaching good savings habits to approximately 1,200 students grades kindergarten through fifth grade. "It's a program that grows in popularity with both our employees and schools," said Reinke. While the bank accommodates employees involved in work time activities with flexible hours, Reinke comments that much service occurs before work, at lunch hour, after work, and on weekends. "For example, our community holds numerous festivals, parades and concerts that occur during evenings and holidays, yet our staff understands how much people appreciate the effort toward making these events successful." To celebrate employees' commitment and dedication, the bank initiated an award to recognize the exceptional contributions of an employee volunteer and donates $500 in the recipient's name to the organization of his or her choice. This year's recipient is Julie Beyer who divides her community service among the local youth soccer association, historical society, community, and school events. In April 2001, the bank was recognized as the area Business Volunteer of the Year by the M & M Volunteer Coordinators. The bank is a member of America's Promise, the national organization whose founding chairman is U.S. Secretary of State General Colin L. Powell. It is comprised of caring adults committed to meet the needs of kids in their communities. "Most of our volunteerism impacts youth, directly or indirectly," said Reinke, "and that's the mission of America's Promise. We are proud to be affiliated with General Powell's initiative." The Stephenson National Bank & Trust is a 127 year-old independent community bank with Wisconsin offices in Marinette, Oconto, and Neenah, and a supermarket branch in Menominee, Michigan.