Oregon Marks Community Bank Week

This week, the state of Oregon is recognizing the vital role community banks play in supporting families, small businesses, and communities across the state.  Governor Tina Kotek officially proclaimed October 20th-24th as Community Bank Week in the state.

"For well over a century, community banks doing business in Oregon have provided local financial services and have supported the prosperity and growth of our communities,” Kotek said in her proclamation. “Community banks are an integral part of Oregon’s overall economy through their community giving, dedication as good neighbors, and above all, their critical role in providing reliable financial services to Oregonians.”

Community Banks Have A Big Impact Locally, Statewide

The Governor’s office noted Community banks serve Oregon through more than 325 branches and loan offices, employing 4,700 Oregonians in family-wage jobs.  They also make more than half of all bank loans to small businesses, fueling entrepreneurship and job creation in every corner of the state.  Community banks also make $3.5 billion in small business loans made annually in Oregon and safeguard over $47 billion in deposits. 

“Community banks are unique because their success is directly tied to the strength of the communities they serve,” said Scott Bruun, president and CEO of the Community Banks of Oregon. “They create jobs, provide access to capital, support local nonprofits, and contribute to Oregon’s tax base. Gov. Kotek’s proclamation recognizes just how essential community banks are to Oregon’s economy and quality of life.”

Community Banks Are Key For Rural Oregon

Community banks are central to Oregon’s economic vitality, contributing to schools, infrastructure, and public services through taxes and serving the credit needs of all communities – including low- and moderate-income neighborhoods – under the federal Community Reinvestment Act. In many rural areas, they are the only local financial institution, making this commitment especially important.

During Community Bank Week, banks across Oregon will celebrate with customer appreciation events, community service projects, food drives, free community shred events where residents can securely dispose of confidential documents, and other outreach efforts that highlight the positive impact of local banking.

Click Here to learn more about activities take place across the state.

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