Community Bank Samford has reached the incredible milestone of providing more than $1 million in grant and sponsorship funding back to the local community. This funding has supported a vast range of community groups and clubs, bringing new projects to life and fostering existing local activities.
Nationally, since 1998, $320 million in profits from Community Bank partnerships has been reinvested in Australian communities.
Community Bank Samford is owned by Pine Rivers Community Finance (PRCF) and operates as a Bendigo Bank branch, offering the full range of Bendigo Bank products and services. This ‘profit-with-purpose’ model means that Community Bank Samford returns up to 100 per cent of profits back to the local community.
Grants encompass a spectrum of initiatives, from supporting programs that enhance veterans’ psychological well-being as they engage with animal shelters, to providing specialised equipment for the local Meals On Wheels division.
The Bank has also garnered a reputation as a prominent patron for numerous local sports clubs, fervently advocating the development of our upcoming generations to achieve life goals.
Board of Directors Chairperson, Malcolm Frizzell said the bank is proud to fund projects that directly impact the everyday lives of local people.
“It’s a wonderful thing to be able to give back to the community in this way. By providing over $1 million in grant funding so far, we have ensured local groups who do so much for the community, have the funding they need to keep up the wonderful work they do,” he said.
“Everyone at the Bank is extremely proud of the fact that we contribute directly to the community that supports us in the first place. Everyone benefits, as our customers gain competitive rates and a full range of banking services, while the community receives enhanced resources and financial support.”
“Our vision is to build sustainability and resilience into our community where we serve.”
Community Bank Samford provides grants to charitable and not-for-profit organisations connected to the Samford, Pine Rivers and northern regions, furthering activities that enhance the immediate community. The bank’s primary focus is to contribute towards projects supporting families, youth, health, education, the environment and the arts.
Community Bank Brendale was one of the first Community Bank branches founded in Australia, with 324 branches in operation today. In 2009, the Samford branch was established and in 2022 Brendale and Samford merged, consolidating operations at the Samford location.
“With heartfelt thanks to customers who have taken out a mortgage, saved with a term deposit or opened a bank account at Community Bank Samford; we couldn’t have reached this million-dollar achievement without you,” said Senior Branch Manager Mandy Bell
To celebrate this milestone, the bank will launch a very special grant round later this year, seeking significant projects and programs in the Samford, Pine Rivers and Narangba regions. Projects from $50,000 commencing from July 2024 will be considered.
“These projects will be identified by PRCF Directors and staff, however, if you have a project that meets these criteria, email grants@prcf.com.au and tell us about it,” said Mandy. “Multi-year funding will be considered and our regular grant round will also open mid-September this year.” Tanya Hall
