Guest Blog – Ann Merkel of The National Bank of Indianapolis
The National Bank of Indianapolis was founded in 1993 with core values of providing superior personal service, delivered by experienced local decision-makers, and a focus on community support and involvement. We are a bank that continues to put clients and community at the center of our business plan. Quite simply, Greater Indianapolis is our home and we believe in strengthening our community through our partnerships. We see our commitment as a key part of our corporate social responsibility.
What really sets The National Bank of Indianapolis apart is its local ownership. It is privately owned, not publicly traded, with substantially all its shareholders residing in Central Indiana. In addition, the Board of Directors is comprised entirely of local citizens, and our 330 employees all call Greater Indianapolis home. We are concerned with the social, economic and environmental challenges that face our community. The result is a bank that focuses on what’s best for Central Indiana residents. Annually, The National Bank of Indianapolis provides financial and volunteer support to several hundred local nonprofit organizations. Since its founding in 1993, the Bank has provided more than $10 million in direct financial support and countless volunteer hours, a record that was recognized in 2018 with the Spirit United Award from the United Way of Central Indiana.
“What makes The National Bank of Indianapolis a standout in the banking community is that they were founded in, remain headquartered in, and are solely focused on the Central Indiana community,” said Ann Murtlow, President & CEO of the United Way of Central Indiana. “The bank’s leadership and workforce are committed to aligning the generosity and talents of its employees to the needs of our community.”
To underscore its ongoing commitment to the community and to recognize our employees’ community engagement, the bank celebrated its silver anniversary last year by giving a gift of $100 to each employee to be donated to the nonprofit of the individual’s choice. In addition, the bank gives every employee one work day off annually as an extra day of service to volunteer for a local community organization of their choice.
There are so many opportunities to better our community by giving of time and resources. The most important advice I might offer to any business or organization, is that it does not matter how small or big you are; it matters that you are of service to your community. Corporate social responsibility can take many forms. Choose activities that encourage employee engagement and reinvest in the communities you serve.