DICTIONARY ENTRIES identify “community” as a noun, but community at its best is an action verb. Shelbyville’s First Community Bank (FCB) has put community at the heart of its mission for 35 years and recently celebrated by furthering its commitment to improving lives in Bedford County.
Kayla Hilliard, marketing assistant at FCB, recalled that their initial brainstorming didn’t produce any ideas that complemented the bank’s mission.
She said, “We collaboratively brainstormed and decided to reflect on the message we wanted to convey. Our aim was to recognize the individuals who have positively impacted our community alongside us rather than solely focusing on ourselves. So that’s where we went back to our roots, values, and founding principles. What were we founded on? Service. This was a recurring theme in our discussions, and this is where our vision began to take shape. With numerous employees serving on various boards, we have established connections within the community and knew there was a need that would affect several of our local nonprofits.”
These connections included ones with Bedford County’s United Way and the knowledge that our 16 nonprofits in the local chapter would not receive funding this year due to organizational changes. The 35 for 35 Anniversary Celebration was the perfect opportunity to give back in appreciation for FCB’s past success.
Speaking of the past, FCB celebrated on April 20 at King’s Old Central High School, where the memorabilia and treasures of Bedford County’s history testify to the community’s resilience and hope for our future.
“It was an exciting blend of teamwork and celebration, not only honoring ourselves but also shining a light on those who make a significant impact within our communities but often go unnoticed,” Hilliard said.
A $35,000 donation was divided among the 16 organizations, resulting in a $2,200 boost in a year without United Way’s contribution.
“We are focused on giving back to our community; it’s what we do,” Hilliard said.
FCB Chief Executive Officer Scott Cocanougher agrees.
He said, “We are proud to uphold the tradition and stay true to the values of First Community Bank by investing in nonprofits who invest so much into the citizens of Bedford County.”
With an appreciation of the past and an eye on the future, FCB invests in our community. GN