When sitting down with the bankers at Ohio Valley Bank’s office in Barboursville, it does not take long before the bank’s mission of putting “Community First” makes its way into the conversation.

This phrase gets to the heart of the bank and drives many of its decisions and actions, Senior Vice President Chris Preston explains. 

“Early on in my banking career, I realized that to do the best work for my customers, I had to not just live and work here but be involved in my community in any way it needed me. Growth doesn’t happen without nurturing. I think that’s why we love the OVB Impact program so much.”

Under the Impact program, every Ohio Valley Bank employee is awarded up to three paid days off for community service. The type of service is up to the employee and varies with their interests and passions.

Loan Officer Adam Chapman uses his Impact time in tribute to his fallen cousin, who fought bravely for our country in Afghanistan. He believes the work he is doing with the Bradley K. Fulks Memorial Run in the city of Hurricane is an honor. Not only does this event recognize the contributions of our veterans and fallen soldiers, but celebrates the upcoming class of Marines.

“You don’t realize how much work goes into community events until you are doing it yourself,” Chapman says. Events like these are important traditions that build a solid foundation for our community. 

Branch Operations Manager Selena Vincell agrees. Her work with the annual Derby Brunch of the Golden Girls Group Home and with Christ Temple Church’s Night to Shine is hard work, but well worth it. She has met many young ladies and shared with them her own story and her faith that formed her into the woman she is today.

“Sometimes, I feel like I get more out of it than I’m giving,” Vincell admits. 

That sentiment is shared by many of the Ohio Valley Bank employees who find that giving back to their communities in such a dynamic way is rewarding for the soul. 

“It is humbling,” says Account Services Representative Briana Ware. Ware and Customer Service Representative Addison Rapp often work their Impact time together. On random Wednesdays, you may find them volunteering for a couple of hours at the Huntington City Mission before heading into the bank for a full day. 

Beyond these stories are countless others such as cleaning at Ronald McDonald House, showing a little love to the dogs at Huntington Cabell Wayne Animal Shelter or packing food boxes with Facing Hunger Foodbank. These efforts prove beyond the printed page Ohio Valley Bank’s dedication to making a positive impact by putting its Community First.