Why Community Banking Matters

As a business banker at a community bank, I’m often reminded of the old saying, “A rising tide lifts all boats.” To me, it speaks to the interconnected nature of our communities; how we’re all in this together; and how what’s good for the community is good for the individual, and vice versa.

Community banks understand this intimately, and that’s what separates them from the larger, nationwide banks. Because the truth is, community banks like National Bank of Arizona are — quite literally — invested in the cities and towns where they operate. The money you deposit into that bank stays in the community and is used to fund loans that benefit local businesses and individuals, from the young couple buying their first house to the mom-and-pop restaurant that’s looking to expand.

This, in turn, makes the local economy stronger and helps small businesses and individuals become more prosperous. By contrast, deposits in a large bank may be used to invest in big corporations or assets that are located hundreds or thousands of miles away with little or no benefit to your community.

Because of this, community banks are much more active participants in their communities, whether it’s through volunteering, supporting nonprofits or mentoring young entrepreneurs. It’s why when you call your banker, you get someone who knows you and your business. Because when it’s all said and done, community banks understand that we’re all in this together, that what we do is personal, and that a rising tide lifts all boats.