Isn't That Rich Podcast

As the year draws to a close, it's a perfect time to reflect on the exciting and impactful marketing initiatives undertaken by Farmer State Bank. This year has been packed with events, projects, and community engagements that have strengthened our presence and fostered connections with our customers and community. Here's a detailed recap of all the significant activities and accomplishments from the marketing team.

Expanding the Marketing Team

One of the most significant changes this year was expanding our marketing team from two to three members. We welcomed Jared, who has brought fresh ideas and energy, making a notable impact on our efforts. His contributions have been invaluable, and it's been a blast working together.

Launching Our Podcast

A major milestone was the launch of our podcast in April. Initially, we hosted financial literacy masterminds at Ethos, but we wanted to reach a broader audience. The podcast allowed us to share essential financial information and engage with our community on a deeper level. We've covered various topics relevant to southern Illinois, providing a local perspective that our listeners appreciate.

Rebranding FSB Insurance

Rebranding FSB Insurance was a monumental task that involved creating a new logo, designing a website, and updating all customer communication materials. Integrating the insurance company into the Farmer State Bank brand was challenging, but it was essential to align the cultures and ensure a seamless customer experience. We also established a social media presence for FSB Insurance, providing valuable content and engaging with our audience.

Developing a New Mission Statement

We collaborated to create a new mission statement, focusing on leaving a lasting legacy for our customers. Our goal is for every customer to say, "My bank transformed my life and my legacy forever." This mission drives us to provide exceptional service and positively impact our community for generations.

Opening a New Branch in Herrin

Opening a new branch in Herrin was a significant project that took over a year of planning and execution. From hiring staff to designing the interior and hosting community events, this branch represents our commitment to growth and serving new areas. We celebrated the opening with a grand party for customers and a community block party that brought everyone together.

Cardinals First Pitch

In honor of being named the best bank in America in 2022, we had the honor of throwing the first pitch at a St. Louis Cardinals game. Although the game was initially rained out, we rescheduled and had a fantastic time at the ballpark in 2023. It was a proud moment for our team and a testament to our hard work and dedication.

Quarterly Celebrations and Recognition

We continued our tradition of quarterly celebrations, recognizing the achievements of our team and fostering a sense of community. These events are essential for building team morale and celebrating our collective successes.

The Legacy Sessions

The Legacy Sessions, a half-day conference held at the Marion Civic Center, was one of our most impactful events. Focusing on succession planning, estate planning, and financial net worth, the sessions provided valuable insights and practical advice to our community. The event was well-received and highlighted our commitment to financial literacy and community support.

Charitable Giving and Community Engagement

Giving back to the community is at the heart of Farmer State Bank. This year, we donated over $90,000 to various charitable organizations, demonstrating our dedication to supporting those in need. We also participated in numerous community events, such as serving at the Herrin Community Pantry and sponsoring school activities, reinforcing our commitment to making a positive impact.

Pay It Forward Movement

We participated in the Pay It Forward movement, inspired by Charlie Rocket and Kasasa. We created a kindness vending machine filled with gifts and surprises, which we brought to local schools. The students' excitement and gratitude were heartwarming, and the initiative was a resounding success, earning us recognition and helping us achieve our goal of going viral.

Supporting Schools and Teachers

Supporting education is a priority for us. We provided substantial support to local schools through donations, sponsoring events, and volunteering our time. Our efforts included teacher appreciation initiatives, participating in school orientations, and sponsoring cross-country events. These activities helped build strong relationships with educators and students alike.

Holiday Events

The holiday season was marked by several festive activities, such as lighting the iconic blue Christmas tree in Herrin and sponsoring the Christmas in the Courtyard event in Harrisburg. These events brought joy to the community and highlighted our commitment to spreading holiday cheer.

Looking Ahead to 2024

As we reflect on this year's accomplishments, we are excited about the future. We have big plans for 2024, including new initiatives, events, and continued community engagement. Our goal is to build on this year's successes and make an even greater impact in the coming year.

Thank you to everyone who supported us this year. We look forward to serving you and making 2024 an extraordinary year.