Elkhart Community Bank experienced another year of growth in 2007 and added staff to serve our ever-growing client base.
We are also growing physically as the bank has started renovations on an adjacent building that it purchased. The facility will include a modern kitchen and break room, boardroom and offices for Capitol Wealth Advisors. The building also has a large room that will be available to community groups for special events.
| Employee achievements and community involvement in 2007 reflected well on the bank. |
Employee achievements and community involvement in 2007 reflected well on the bank. As the year began, I was honored to be named to a “40 Under 40” list of area business and professional leaders to achieve success before age 40. In December, our supporters cheered as our courier, Paul Randall, competed in the European International Rowing Competition in the 90 and over age group. In between, our employees came to the aid of our neighbors in a nearby community as they cleaned up their property following a devastating tornado. We proudly reported 100 percent employee participation in the United Way campaign.
We remain actively involved with professional and philanthropic organizations while always seeking new client relationships. For instance, Sports-O-Zone USA, a local company, needed financing on their patented machine that kills potentially dangerous bacteria on athletic equipment. Their problem was getting a bank to take the time to learn their business and understand their financing needs. Because little was known of this emerging market, the company was deemed too high a risk by other institutions. Last September, our lending staff analyzed the company’s business plan. Our loan officer researched the company’s market and niche. With this research and our knowledge of the partners and their abilities, the bank was able to assemble an extensive financing package. With the aid of our relationship, the company has leaped into the national spotlight in the battle against infectious organisms that threaten the health of athletes.
Knowing our community and making prudent, yet swift decisions in all questions of credit are what separates Elkhart Community Bank from the competition. We are growing our bank with meaningful relationships.
— Steven L. Brown, President & CEO