#PeopleFirst Archives - Choice Bank https://bankwithchoice.com/category/peoplefirst/ Tue, 28 Oct 2025 15:57:41 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 https://bankwithchoice.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/favicon-1.png #PeopleFirst Archives - Choice Bank https://bankwithchoice.com/category/peoplefirst/ 32 32 Uplifting Our Communities, One Wish at a Time https://bankwithchoice.com/uplifting-our-communities-one-wish-at-a-time/ Wed, 22 Oct 2025 15:12:03 +0000 https://bankwithchoice.com/?p=38817 Every day, people in our communities face challenges that often go unnoticed. At Choice Bank, we believe that compassion and connection can make a meaningful difference, and that belief inspired the creation of the Wishing Well program. Rooted in our...

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Every day, people in our communities face challenges that often go unnoticed. At Choice Bank, we believe that compassion and connection can make a meaningful difference, and that belief inspired the creation of the Wishing Well program.

Rooted in our #PeopleFirst philosophy, the Wishing Well is a way for us to respond to real needs with real support. Whether it’s helping a local camp prepare for summer, honoring cultural heritage, or supporting a family through crisis, each wish granted is a reflection of the strength and resilience of our communities.

Here are three recent wishes that show just how powerful a simple act of kindness can be.

 

campers holding pillowsElks Camp Grassick: A Better Night’s Sleep for Campers

Elks Camp Grassick is a summer camp serving children and adults with disabilities in Dawson, ND. In addition to recreational activities, the camp offers exceptional services, including speech and occupational therapy. It fosters an environment where individuals can practice problem-solving, conflict resolution, and forming positive peer friendships.

However, many of the camp’s pillows were in poor condition, leaving them scrambling to find replacements before the next session began.

We know how important a good night’s sleep is to make the most out of the day, so the Wishing Well gave the camp 72 high-quality pillows, just in time for their busiest sessions. We hope these pillows not only improve comfort but also help protect campers’ health by making sanitation easier between sessions.

“Something as simple as pillows really does make a difference for our campers and staff,” said Jenny Hunt, Camp Director. “These will make cleaning pillows between sessions or in case of illness so much easier and keep our campers healthier and happier, which is always our goal!”

 

donation check presentationSupporting a Volunteer Firefighter’s Recovery

On April 12, Jaiden Bauer, a volunteer firefighter and rancher from McClusky, ND, was severely injured while battling a massive prairie fire in Sheridan County. His recovery would require six weeks in the hospital and eight weeks indoors at home, away from dust, dirt, and sunlight, a difficult ask for someone who lives and works on a farm.

The Wishing Well provided funds for an air conditioning unit, helping Jaiden create a safe and comfortable environment for healing. We hope this small but vital support allowed him to focus on recovery while his community rallied around his family.

 

music concert50th Hmong American Artist Celebration: Honoring a Cultural Legacy

This year marks 50 years since the Hmong people arrived in the United States, and to honor that milestone, OYO Entertainment hosted a once-in-a-lifetime celebration of Hmong American artists in Saint Paul, MN. The event showcased five decades of music, memory, and cultural evolution, including performances by beloved Hmong boy bands from the 1980s and 1990s.

With over 2,000 attendees from across the country and beyond, the celebration was a powerful tribute to the creativity and resilience of the Hmong community. Choice Bank’s Wishing Well helped cover costs for artist travel and venue space, ensuring the event could go forward as planned.

“It was a beautiful evening celebrating, honoring, and seeing performances from the last five decades,” said Pang Mee Xiong, Event Organizer. “We had about 2,000 people who attended, and they came from all over the world.”

This wish wasn’t just about funding; it was about recognizing and uplifting a vibrant community and its contributions to American culture.

 


Wishing well coin

The Choice Bank Wishing Well is accepting wishes! Ready to cast yours? Visit choicewishingwell.com and let us know who you would like to help out in your community.

Make A Wish

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Choice Bank Honored with 2025 NOBEL Prize for Community Impact https://bankwithchoice.com/choice-bank-receives-2025-nobel-prize/ Wed, 10 Sep 2025 19:51:48 +0000 https://bankwithchoice.com/?p=38215 We’re proud to announce that Choice Bank has been awarded the prestigious 2025 NOBEL Prize by the South Dakota Bankers Association at this year’s Quad States Convention. This honor recognizes financial institutions that go beyond banking to create meaningful change...

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We’re proud to announce that Choice Bank has been awarded the prestigious 2025 NOBEL Prize by the South Dakota Bankers Association at this year’s Quad States Convention. This honor recognizes financial institutions that go beyond banking to create meaningful change in their communities. Choice Bank’s #PeopleFirst mission stood out among nominees from North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, and Wyoming.

From raising over $1.5 million through our Go Hawaiian for Hospice fundraiser since 2013 to supporting rural families with our Child Care Grant, our commitment to service is woven into everything we do. In 2024 alone, our employees volunteered 5,365 hours, and through impactful partnerships like the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines, we donated over $628,000 to nonprofits across North Dakota.

Our Wishing Well initiative continues to grant heartfelt wishes to those in need, while our pledge to the Great Plains Food Bank helps provide 60,000 meals annually. These efforts reflect our belief that banking should be about building stronger, more connected communities.

“At Choice Bank, we believe that banking should be a force for good,” said Brian L. Johnson, Choice Bank CEO. “Receiving the NOBEL Prize is a humbling recognition of our team’s unwavering commitment to putting people first, whether it’s through volunteerism, financial support, or community partnerships. This award belongs to every employee who shows up each day with a heart for service and a drive to make a difference.”

We’re deeply honored by this recognition and grateful to the South Dakota Bankers Association for celebrating our work. Most of all, we thank our communities for inspiring us to keep putting People First every day.

Choice Bank is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life and economic viability of families and businesses in the communities we serve. Learn more about how we live out our #PeopleFirst promise.

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Shikhar Singh Receives Minnesota ORBIE Technology Leader of the Year Award https://bankwithchoice.com/shikhar-singh-receives-minnesota-orbie-technology-leader-of-the-year-award/ Tue, 02 Sep 2025 13:30:33 +0000 https://bankwithchoice.com/?p=38110 We’re proud to announce that Shikhar Singh, Chief Technology Officer at Choice Bank, has been awarded the 2025 Minnesota ORBIE Corporate Technology Leader of the Year! Presented by MinnesotaCIO and supported by the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal (MSPBJ), the ORBIE...

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We’re proud to announce that Shikhar Singh, Chief Technology Officer at Choice Bank, has been awarded the 2025 Minnesota ORBIE Corporate Technology Leader of the Year!

Presented by MinnesotaCIO and supported by the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal (MSPBJ), the ORBIE Awards honor technology leaders who drive innovation, transformation, and impact across Minnesota’s leading organizations.

Shikhar’s leadership has been instrumental in our evolution into a Hybrid Bank, blending Traditional banking with Banking-as-a-Service (BaaS). His commitment to modernizing our technology, strengthening risk and compliance frameworks, and deepening strategic partnerships reflects the heart of our hashtag#PeopleFirst culture.

In Shikhar’s words: “This award is a reflection of the dedication, hard work, and passion shown every day by the entire Choice Bank family. I am simply the one receiving it, but it truly belongs to our employees who make our vision a reality. Their commitment inspires me, and they deserve all the recognition.”

Beyond Choice, Shikhar is recognized in the financial services industry, contributing to forums like Alloy Labs and speaking at global conferences. He collaborates with Microsoft and other banks to advance data analytics strategies.

In the community, Shikhar mentors future leaders and supports Arya Samaj Kid’s Academy, teaching Math and Computer Science. His leadership style inspires growth, innovation, and lasting impact.

Congratulations, Shikhar! Your vision and dedication continue to inspire us all.

Learn more about how Shikhar and Choice Bank pursue innovation with a #PeopleFirst mindset here.

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More than a Roof: Creating Homes with Heart in Fargo https://bankwithchoice.com/more-than-a-roof-creating-homes-with-heart-in-fargo/ Tue, 15 Jul 2025 13:46:59 +0000 https://bankwithchoice.com/?p=37686 Every day, families transition out of homelessness. While they may gain a roof over their head, many start over with nothing: no beds, no furniture, no sense of comfort. That is where Down Home, a nonprofit of Fargo, ND, steps...

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Every day, families transition out of homelessness. While they may gain a roof over their head, many start over with nothing: no beds, no furniture, no sense of comfort. That is where Down Home, a nonprofit of Fargo, ND, steps in. At Down Home, they believe that a house becomes a home not just with furniture, but with a sense of belonging and hopefulness. Down Homes’ mission is to empower lives and stabilize individuals, helping families emerging from homelessness by furnishing homes and strengthening connections.

After speaking with Kelsie Moch, Ops Risk Supervisor at Choice Bank, we are pleased to tell you about Down Homes’ extraordinary mission in the heart of Fargo, and how Choice Bank helped aid this great organization.

“We want people’s space to feel like this is a safe place to come home to and rest and unwind at the end of the day,” Kelsie said. This is exactly what Down Home delivers. Turning a shelter into a home by furnishing these spaces. They provide everything from beds and couches to kitchenware and décor. This turns bare, empty apartments into places of comfort and pride for families. Kelsie says, “What we see from this is that it truly helps to end the cycle of homelessness.”

Recently, Choice Bank sponsored its first move-in with Down Home, transforming an empty space into a beautiful home.

“The move-in was extremely rewarding and impactful for our entire team,” Eddie Sheeley, Fargo Market President, said. “The Down Home team was incredibly efficient and had everything ready for us to set our afternoon up for success. Working together as a team alongside Down Home, transforming a space into a home, was humbling and powerful. We are excited to participate in future move-ins so additional team members can partake in this experience and see firsthand the transformational work Down Home is doing in our community.”

Choice Employees Help with a move-in

Down Home also does a “Good Night Sleep Challenge,” which invites participants to sleep on the floor for one night to better understand the reality faced by many families.

“It is just so cool to see how quickly our Choice employees jumped on board with the idea of providing that good in the community. I think that speaks so much, not only to what Down Home is doing, but also to how passionate all our Choice Team Members are about doing good in the community.” Kelsie expressed.

Another Impactful initiative the Down Home does is a program called the “Empower Up Program.” This exists for people who have experienced homelessness and are looking to further connect and stabilize our community.

“There are always ways to support in the community,” voiced Kelsie. Down Home is always taking donations and has an updated wish list on their website of items they are currently in need of. Kelsie exclaimed, “It’s been super rewarding and exciting to be a part of something like this, see the impact it’s having in the community, and the perspective that it’s giving.”

Choice Employees Help with a move-in

Down Home and Choice Bank are transforming lives: one home, one heart, one hopeful beginning at a time. Whether it’s through a furnished room, a night spent on the floor in solidarity, or empowerment through connection, every act of kindness helps break the cycle of homelessness. You can be part of that change. Visit Down Home’s page to explore ways you can support, donate, and learn more about this inspiring mission.

Choice Bank is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life and economic viability of families and businesses in the communities we serve. Learn more about how we live out our #PeopleFirst promise.

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Choice Bank Donates $444,000 to 26 Minnesota Nonprofits https://bankwithchoice.com/choice-bank-donates-444000-to-26-minnesota-nonprofits/ Tue, 08 Jul 2025 13:57:05 +0000 https://bankwithchoice.com/?p=37648 Choice Bank has donated $444,000 to 26 different nonprofits in Minnesota, supporting affordable housing and community development needs. These donations were made possible through a partnership with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines’ Member Impact Fund. The Member...

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Choice Bank has donated $444,000 to 26 different nonprofits in Minnesota, supporting affordable housing and community development needs. These donations were made possible through a partnership with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines’ Member Impact Fund. The Member Impact Fund contributed $3 to every $1 donated by Choice Bank, tripling the impact of the donation.

Choice Bank was able to submit grant applications on behalf of multiple organizations that directly impact our Minnesota communities. These donations will help support critical needs, including a $40,000 donation to YouthLink to support young people experiencing homelessness, $60,000 to Lake Agassiz Habitat for Humanity to address poverty in Moorhead, and $60,000 to The Link to support youth and families experiencing homelessness in Minneapolis, among other initiatives. See all of Choice Bank’s donations below.

“At Choice Bank, we’re committed to bettering the places we live by supporting the people and businesses that shape our communities,” said Cristen Purdy, Market President – SBA and Community Impact Lending at Choice Bank. “Thanks to the Member Impact Fund, we’ve been able to extend our reach and make a meaningful difference in the lives of the community members we serve. Supporting our communities isn’t just a goal—it’s the core of who we are.”

FHLB Des Moines provides funding solutions to more than 1,200 members to support mortgage lending, economic development and affordable housing in the communities they serve. The Member Impact Fund provides FHLB Des Moines members up to $3 for every $1 in matching grant donations to strengthen the ability of not-for-profits or government entities to support the needs of their communities.

“The Member Impact Fund continues to be a powerful resource in supporting our members as they expand access to affordable housing and drive community development,” said Kris Williams, president and CEO of FHLB Des Moines. “It’s inspiring to see the partnerships centered around improving local communities in such a variety of ways.”

Recipient organizations were selected based on the needs for grant funding to support capacity-building or working capital necessary to strengthen their ability to serve affordable housing or community development needs, including job training, affordable housing, financial literacy, food banks, and youth programs.

In 2024, Choice Bank donated $628,000 to 20 nonprofits in North Dakota through this same program.

 

Donation Details

a place for hopeA Place for Hope and Recovery and Wellness Center, Inc.: $10,000
Moorhead, MN

A Place For Hope (AP4H) operates from the clubhouse model of psychosocial rehabilitation by supporting people with a history of mental illness rejoin society and maintain their place in it. AP4H utilizes the Eight Dimensions of Wellness approach to help members connect with each other through planned activities, community outings, meal gatherings, volunteering, and peer-to-peer mentoring.

 

best prepBest Prep: $12,000
Brooklyn Park, MN

BestPrep is a Minnesota-based nonprofit organization that provides educational programs to students in grades 4-12, with the mission of preparing students with business, career, and financial literacy skills through hands-on experiences that inspire success in work and life.


Breakaway, Inc.: $10,000
Minneapolis, MN

Breakaway provides a secure environment for chronic alcoholics in Minneapolis, MN. The program offers living quarters, counseling and job placement to approximately 80 participants each year.

 

Dilworth Police DepartmentDilworth Police Department: $12,000
Dilworth, MN

The Dilworth Police Department will use this donation to fund community events, promote community engagement, and enhance public safety.

 

commonbondCommonBond Communities: $20,000
Saint Paul, MN

Since 1971, CommonBond has been building stable homes, strong futures, and vibrant communities. Their vision is to ensure that every person has a dignified, affordable home that supports independence and advancement within a flourishing community.

 

Division of Indian Work: $10,000
Minneapolis, MN

The Division of Indian Work (DIW) has been a key contributor to the Native community for over 70 years. Their mission is to support and strengthen urban American Indian people through culturally-based education, traditional healing approaches, and leadership development.

 

First Presbyterian Church of Moorhead Food Justice ProgramFirst Presbyterian Church of Moorhead Food Justice Program: $10,000
Moorhead, MN

This donation will support the Market Bucks program, a key component of the Moorhead Farmers Market’s food access strategy that helps to make fresh, local food more affordable for income-eligible residents. Through this program, customers using SNAP/EBT benefits can receive matched dollars in the form of Market Bucks and Produce Bucks, which are redeemable with vendors throughout the market. This effectively increases their purchasing power and promotes healthy food choices.

 

Fortis CapitalFortis Capital: $10,000
Minneapolis, MN

Fortis Capital is a non-profit corporation engaged in economic development finance in Minneapolis. Their mission is to ensure entrepreneurs can access capital regardless of their ethnicity, identity, or geography by bridging the gap through innovative financing for entrepreneurs.

 

hope fieldhouseHope Fieldhouse: $10,000
Rosemount, MN

The Hope Fieldhouse’s mission is to enhance and enrich the lives of children and their families within the community by providing a quality athletic facility that is purposeful, safe, and fun.

 

hope incHope, Inc.: $10,000
Moorhead, MN

HOPE, Inc. provides adaptive team sports and recreational activities to kids and adults living with mobility challenges.

 

habitat for humanityLake Agassiz Habitat for Humanity: $60,000
Moorhead, MN

Lake Agassiz Habitat for Humanity constructs homes for those living in poverty in Clay County, MN.

 

Lionsgate Foundation: $10,000
St. Louis Park, MN

Lionsgate Foundation’s vision is to expand opportunities, dissolve barriers, and increase belonging between students with autism, their families, and the broader autism community

 

Mile in My Shoes: $10,000
Minneapolis, MN

Mile in My Shoes uses the power of running to bring together people from diverse backgrounds to build connections, boost wellness, spark social change, and center people traditionally excluded from running spaces.

 

minneapolis nature preschoolMinneapolis Nature Preschool: $10,000
Minneapolis, MN

The Minneapolis Nature Preschool cultivates the innate curiosity and wonder of young children through nature-based education in Minneapolis.

 

Foster AdoptMinnesota Adoption Resource Network: $10,000
Minneapolis, MN

Since 1980, Foster Adopt Minnesota has been focused on the goal of ensuring that every Minnesota child grows up in a safe and nurturing family.

 

Minnesota Assistance Council for VeteransMinnesota Assistance Council for Veterans: $20,000
Saint Paul, MN

The Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans provides services, including housing, employment, and legal aid, that address the reasons for Veterans’ homelessness to create sustainable housing opportunities.

 

RoundtableRxMinnesota Medication Repository Program – RoundtableRx: $10,000
Saint Paul, MN

RoundtableRx’s mission is to offer safe and affordable medication to Minnesotans in need, provide continuity of care, and reduce waste by redistributing unused medications.


Minnesota Military Family FoundationMinnesota Military Family Foundation: $10,000
Minneapolis, MN

The mission of the Minnesota Military Family Foundation is to provide timely financial assistance to deployed and currently serving Minnesota military personnel and their families.

 

Next Stage: $10,000
Bloomington, MN

NextStage is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to support entrepreneurs at every stage.

 

north country food bankNorth Country Food Bank, Inc.: $20,000
East Grand Forks, MN

North Country Food Bank is a 501(c)3 charitable non-profit and is the largest hunger-relief organization in northwest and west central Minnesota.

 

plymouth christian youth centerPlymouth Christian Youth Center: $10,000
Minneapolis, MN

PCYC is committed to working faithfully and creatively toward a bright future focused on education, art, equity, and justice for the children, youth, and families of North Minneapolis and beyond.

 

project for pride in livingProject for Pride in Living: $20,000
Minneapolis, MN

PPL builds the hope, assets, and self-reliance of individuals and families who have lower incomes by providing transformative affordable housing and career readiness services.

 

the linkThe Link: $60,000
Minneapolis, MN

The Link supports youth and families experiencing homelessness, young people who are survivors of sex trafficking, and youth who are involved in the juvenile justice system.

 

The Open Door
The Open Door: $20,000
Eagan, MN

The Open Door provides food support for low-income individuals and families across Dakota County.

 

Washburn Center for Children: $10,000
Minneapolis, MN

Washburn Center for Children’s mission is to nurture every child and family’s well-being and full potential through transformative children’s mental health care.

 

youthlinkYouthLink: $40,000
Minneapolis, MN

YouthLink serves young people ages 16-24 experiencing or at risk of homelessness in the Twin Cities, MN.

 

Bettering the places we live is one of our core values and these donations will help create more vibrant places to live and work. We’re dedicated to supporting the families and businesses in our communities. Learn about our People First history here.

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Choice Bank and Sweetwater Band Strike a Chord to Raise Funds for Veterans’ Honor Flights https://bankwithchoice.com/choice-bank-sweetwater-raise-funds-veterans-honor-flights/ Tue, 24 Jun 2025 13:36:03 +0000 https://bankwithchoice.com/?p=37521 Decades after serving their country, many veterans never get the chance to visit the memorials built in their honor. The Honor Flight Network ensures they do, providing free trips to Washington, D.C., for those who served. After talking with Jill...

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Decades after serving their country, many veterans never get the chance to visit the memorials built in their honor. The Honor Flight Network ensures they do, providing free trips to Washington, D.C., for those who served. After talking with Jill Callander, VP, Cash Management Sales Officer at Choice Bank, we’re delighted to tell you about a way Jill and others were able to give back to this wonderful organization, through their talents & connections.

Out of high school, Jill played in a band called Sweetwater with some friends from the Fargo-Moorhead area. At her son’s wedding reception last June, there was a live band. After talking with some of her fellow band members at the wedding, Jill joked, “Wouldn’t it just be fun to put the band back together for one night?” Rick Adams, fellow member of Sweetwater, who still performs in the Fargo-Moorhead area, had a performance set up for himself in April at the American Legion in Moorhead. After talking with Jill and other band members, he reached out on a whim to the American Legion and asked to bring the whole band together for the night instead of performing solo.

The night of their performance arrived quickly.

“We practiced Friday afternoon, and we hadn’t been together for 40 years, so it wasn’t ‘oh, we are going to be amazing,’ but rather, ‘oh, this is going to be a fun night!’” Jill said. That is precisely what the night was. That afternoon, the American Legion hosted purse bingo to raise money for the Veterans Honor Flight of ND/MN. Jill and the band decided that if they received any tips that night, they would also donate them to this awesome cause.

“Interestingly enough, there ended up being around 500 people there and we made $2,500 in tips,” Jill said. The whole band was delighted with the money they were able to make in support of the Honor Flight, but Jill wasn’t going to stop there.

“Hey, maybe I can see if Choice Bank would match the $2,500!” she exclaimed. “Working at Choice, I know that this is a part of our core values to better the places we live. I thought this would be a great way to tie Choice into a fun thing we did, while also benefiting one of the non-profits in the community.”

Jill’s grandfather served in World War I and her father served in the Korean War. Having a history of family in the military, she knew this was truly going to feel like a “full-circle story” for her.

Although Jill has been living in the Twin Cities for 40 years, she said, “Fargo-Moorhead is still home to me. To bring that full circle moment of us getting the band back together to do something fun in the community and then be able to work at a company like Choice, where I can really tie in our company’s core values of bettering the places we live, it’s so fun!”

This story was one fantastic way that the Sweetwater band got back together on a whim, and ended in support of a truly astonishing event, The Honor Flights.

At Choice Bank, part of our People First promise means supporting our veterans. We host an annual Hotcakes for Heroes fundraiser in Bismarck to support veterans in hospice care. We also offer a VA Home Loan program to help veterans purchase a home.

There are many ways to donate to the Honor Flights, and they even do a coming home event in Fargo where people can come in and welcome the Veterans home. If you are interested in donating or aiding in volunteer work with the Veterans Honor Flights Network of ND/MN you can learn more about it here: veteranshonorflightofndmn.org.

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Helping Our Neighbors, One Wish at a Time https://bankwithchoice.com/helping-our-neighbors-one-wish-at-a-time/ Thu, 22 May 2025 19:08:59 +0000 https://bankwithchoice.com/?p=37428 Every day, people in our communities face challenges that often go unseen. They may be our neighbors, coworkers, or even family members, quietly navigating hardships. At Choice Bank, we asked ourselves a simple but powerful question: How can we help?...

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Every day, people in our communities face challenges that often go unseen. They may be our neighbors, coworkers, or even family members, quietly navigating hardships. At Choice Bank, we asked ourselves a simple but powerful question: How can we help?

That question sparked the creation of the Choice Bank Wishing Well in 2018. Rooted in our #PeopleFirst philosophy, this initiative was designed to uplift individuals and organizations in need, one wish at a time. Since its inception, the Wishing Well has granted dozens of heartfelt wishes, each one a testament to the strength and resilience of our communities.

Here are some of the most recent wishes we’ve had the honor of granting and the incredible impact they’ve made:

 

Knox Family
Rebuilding After Tragedy

When Heather and Ian Knox of Marshall, MN, lost their home to a devastating fire in February 2025, they were left with nothing but gratitude for their safety and a long road to rebuilding their home. Temporarily living in an apartment, the Knox family faced the daunting task of rebuilding their lives from scratch. Choice employee Kelli Kurth notified us of the Knox family’s situation, so the Wishing Well stepped in to provide a gift card for essential home items like bedding and curtains, helping them take the first steps toward creating a new home.

 

Wishing Well Check Presentation
Creating Accessible Outdoor Spaces at Wilson Dam

Wilson Dam is a beloved local spot for fishing, playing, and gathering. But its aging wooden picnic table was no longer safe or accessible. With help from the Wishing Well, a new ADA-compliant picnic table will soon be installed, ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability, can enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.

 

Wishing Well Check Presentation
Journey to Healing

Amelie Willits has been bravely battling juvenile arthritis and uveitis since a young age. With frequent trips to Fargo and Rochester for treatment, travel costs quickly added up. The Wishing Well provided $500 to help ease the financial burden on her family, allowing them to focus on what matters most: Amelie’s health.

 

Wishing Well Check Presentation
Safe Transport for Survivors

Kedish House in Ellendale, ND, provides critical support to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. But with limited local housing options, transporting victims to safe locations, sometimes out of state, was a growing challenge. Thanks to the Wishing Well, Kedish House was able to purchase a reliable vehicle to ensure safe, secure transport for those in crisis.

Each wish granted by the Choice Bank Wishing Well is more than just a gift; it’s a message of hope, a show of solidarity, and a reminder that we’re all in this together. Whether it’s helping a family rebuild, making public spaces more inclusive, or supporting those facing medical or personal crises, the Wishing Well is a powerful example of what happens when we put people first. We’re proud to continue this journey, one wish at a time.


Wishing well coin

The Choice Bank Wishing Well is accepting wishes! Ready to cast yours? Visit choicewishingwell.com and let us know who you would like to help out in your community.

Make A Wish

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Choice Bank Named Finalist for Banking Tech Awards USA https://bankwithchoice.com/choice-bank-named-finalist-for-banking-tech-awards-usa/ Mon, 19 May 2025 15:37:08 +0000 https://bankwithchoice.com/?p=37358 We’re thrilled to announce that Choice Bank has been selected as a finalist in the 2025 Banking Tech Awards USA in the Best Community Bank Modernization category. This honor recognizes our groundbreaking Hybrid Banking Platform Initiative, a transformative effort that blends the trusted foundation of community...

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We’re thrilled to announce that Choice Bank has been selected as a finalist in the 2025 Banking Tech Awards USA in the Best Community Bank Modernization category. This honor recognizes our groundbreaking Hybrid Banking Platform Initiative, a transformative effort that blends the trusted foundation of community banking with the agility and scale of fintech innovation. This award is given by FinTech Futures, one of the largest international online and print media houses serving the global banking and fintech industry.

“At Choice Bank, we believe that modernization isn’t just about adopting new technology—it’s about reimagining how we serve our customers and communities,” Shikhar Singh, Chief Technology Officer, said. “Our Hybrid Banking Platform is the result of bold thinking, deep collaboration, and a relentless focus on delivering value. Being named a finalist for the Banking Tech Awards USA is a proud moment for our team and a reflection of the innovation that’s possible when purpose meets technology.”

 

Introducing the Hybrid Banking Model

Our unique strength as a bank lies in our dual identity as both a community bank and a technology bank through our BaaS services. This combination not only sets us apart in the market but also contributes to a more resilient deposit base.

As a hybrid community bank, we believe having access to financial services is a human necessity. Since 2017, Choice Bank has provided Banking as a Service (BaaS) solutions, in which we directly integrate our digital banking services into the products of other non-bank businesses that serve underbanked populations. We build strong and scalable relationships through this direct integration model. This approach offers greater flexibility, allowing partners to customize and tailor their product and service offerings by working directly with Choice as both the bank and BaaS service provider.

By investing in Information Technology, Operations, and Risk Management, we laid the groundwork for a scalable, resilient, and customer-centric platform.

 

Building the Future with Purpose

At Choice Bank, our commitment to innovation is driven by a simple but powerful goal: to better serve our customers, wherever they are and however they choose to bank. Over the past few years, we’ve taken deliberate steps to modernize our operations and technology, ensuring we remain agile, resilient, and responsive in an ever-evolving financial landscape.

We’ve invested in building the right teams, refining our internal capabilities, and rethinking how we deliver services. By embracing a platform-first mindset, we’ve been able to adapt quickly to changing market dynamics and customer needs, ensuring that our solutions remain both relevant and reliable.

Our transformation has always centered on people—our customers and our employees. We’ve introduced new tools and digital capabilities that make banking more accessible and intuitive, while also streamlining internal processes to enhance efficiency and service quality.

 

A Recognition of Purpose and Progress

Through thoughtful integration of technology and operations, we’ve created a more unified experience that empowers customers to bank on their terms. Being named a finalist for the Banking Tech Awards USA is more than an accolade—it’s a testament to our team’s vision, resilience, and relentless pursuit of excellence. We’re honored to be recognized among the best and brightest in banking technology, and we remain steadfast in our mission to build a better, more inclusive financial future.

Choice Bank is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life and economic viability of families and businesses in the communities we serve. Learn more about how we live out our #PeopleFirst promise.

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Choice Bank Named 2025 United Way Top Generous Workplace https://bankwithchoice.com/choice-bank-named-2025-united-way-top-generous-workplace/ Wed, 23 Apr 2025 12:43:38 +0000 https://bankwithchoice.com/?p=37074 We are thrilled to announce that Choice Bank has been named the #24 Top Generous Workplace and the #5 Top Engaged Workplace by United Way of Cass-Clay for 2025! This recognition is a testament to our commitment to being #PeopleFirst...

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We are thrilled to announce that Choice Bank has been named the #24 Top Generous Workplace and the #5 Top Engaged Workplace by United Way of Cass-Clay for 2025! This recognition is a testament to our commitment to being #PeopleFirst and our dedication to giving our time and talent to support our communities.

“Our recognition by United Way of Cass-Clay is a reflection of the incredible dedication and generosity of our team members,” Eddie Sheeley, Choice Bank Location President, said. “At Choice Bank, we believe in the power of community and the importance of giving back. This honor underscores our commitment to making a positive impact and supporting the communities we serve.”

Through this recognition, the United Way honors businesses that consistently give their time and talent to support the mission of United Way, which is to cultivate solutions to end poverty. Choice Bank is one of more than 650 companies that partner with United Way every year. This collective effort has a positive impact on the lives of thousands of men, women, and children in Cass and Clay counties.

Our team members continue to show up for the UnitedWay and our community in various ways:

  • High participation during our internal campaign to raise funds for the United Way’s mission.
  • Multiple Choice team members serve on Committees such as the Women United Leadership Team, Investment Review Panel, Campaign Cabinet, etc.
  • Attendance/volunteering at events such as School Supply Drive, Poverty Simulations, Day of Action, Lead UNITED events, etc.
  • Sharing the work the United Way does and inspiring others to take action.

Choice Bank is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life and economic viability of families and businesses in the communities we serve. Learn more about how we live out our #PeopleFirst promise.

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Transforming Lives, One Wish at a Time https://bankwithchoice.com/transforming-lives-one-wish-at-a-time/ https://bankwithchoice.com/transforming-lives-one-wish-at-a-time/#respond Sun, 02 Mar 2025 21:14:17 +0000 https://bankwithchoice.com/?p=36102 Carson Senior Meals Program The Carson Senior Meals Program in Carson, ND, provides hot meals five days a week for the senior citizens of Grant County, serving 20-28 meals per day. Due to the high cost of purchasing groceries locally,...

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Carson Senior Meals Program

The Carson Senior Meals Program in Carson, ND, provides hot meals five days a week for the senior citizens of Grant County, serving 20-28 meals per day. Due to the high cost of purchasing groceries locally, especially fresh fruits and vegetables, the program faced financial challenges. The Wishing Well granted $1,500 to the Carson Senior Meals Program, enabling them to purchase more fresh produce and continue providing nutritious meals to the community’s seniors.

 

donation check presentation
Farm in the Dell

Farm in the Dell, a non-profit organization north of Moorhead, MN, is dedicated to “transforming disabilities into abilities” by providing meaningful work and life experiences for individuals with developmental disabilities. To better support their Garden Engineers, who face various challenges, the farm has been working to improve its infrastructure. The Wishing Well granted $5,000 to Farm in the Dell for the construction of a second well, which will provide sufficient water pressure for their gardening efforts and support the installation of an ADA-accessible bathroom!

 

donation check presentation
Kevin Basher

Kevin Basher, a Choice Bank customer and single father, was recently diagnosed with lung cancer. Running his own lawn and snow care business while raising his 7-year-old daughter, Kevin faced significant financial strain due to his diagnosis and the need for frequent travel for medical appointments. The Wishing Well granted Kevin $1,000 in gift cards to help cover groceries, travel expenses, school supplies, and clothing for his daughter, alleviating some of the stress during this challenging time.

 

donation check presentation
Guelph Community

The Guelph Community sought to purchase playground equipment for their community center grounds, a former school used for various events. Recognizing the importance of providing activities for children during these events, the Wishing Well granted $1,000 to the Guelph Community to contribute towards the purchase of the playground equipment, ensuring that children feel valued and have a space to be active.

 

donation check presentation
Lamoure EMS

Lamoure EMS planned to host a Rubber Duck Race to raise funds for building upkeep expenses, including maintaining a new USA flag, painting, and cleaning supplies. The event involves community members sponsoring ducks, which are then raced down a stream. The Wishing Well granted $500 to Lamoure EMS to cover the startup costs of the Rubber Duck Race, helping to establish a fun and engaging annual fundraising event for the community.


Wishing well coin

The Choice Bank Wishing Well is accepting wishes! Ready to cast yours? Visit choicewishingwell.com and let us know who you would like to help out in your community.

Make A Wish

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