NebraskaLand Bank Honored with the 2024 Small Business Step Forward Award

We’re thrilled to announce that NebraskaLand Bank has been awarded the 2024 Small Business Step Forward Award by Serve Nebraska and Governor Pillen. This recognition celebrates our commitment to community service and the positive impact made through our volunteer programs. Being part of this distinguished group of winners, carefully selected by Governor Pillen, acknowledges our significant contributions to our communities and the state of Nebraska.

“It is an honor to receive the 2024 Step Forward Award for Corporate Community Volunteerism. This award is a testament to our incredible team members who have dedicated themselves to making NebraskaLand Bank what it is today. Representing them is both a privilege and a joy,” said Sen. Mike Jacobson, President & CEO of NebraskaLand Bank.

Ty Lucas, Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer, added, “It was a privilege to attend the annual banquet in Omaha and be recognized with this award. Many employees choose to work at NebraskaLand Bank because we value excellent customer service while dedicating our time and resources to positively impact the communities we serve.”

NebraskaLand Bank’s Commitment to Community

Volunteering is at the heart of our culture here at NebraskaLand Bank. Our team members tirelessly dedicate their time and energy to making our communities better places to live. The Step Forward Awards honor businesses and individuals who go above and beyond in their service to others.

Our employees actively contribute by serving on various boards and committees, dedicating their time and expertise to make a positive impact. In 2023, we supported 284 organizations, donated $302,719 to the community, and our employees served 79 organizations and recorded 2,105 volunteer hours.

Through our Grilling for Good program, we assist nonprofit organizations with preparing and serving large meals to raise funds for their causes. We donate our grill, time, and food to benefit local non-profits, schools, churches, and more. Our grill is a familiar sight at various community events, sometimes present at different events every day for weeks at a time. Annually, we support over 150 events through our Grilling for Good program.

In addition to our Grilling for Good program are initiatives like Project Blank, where we empowered our employees to leverage their skills for community benefit. We encourage and reward staff participation, fostering a culture of service within our organization. Project Blank is a testament to our dedication to community service. Through this platform, employees had the opportunity to volunteer their time and skills, directly affecting the organizations they are passionate about.

The My Fair Share program enables bank employees to nominate local organizations for financial donations contributed by their colleagues. Employees have the ability to determine what percentage of their donations will support each organization nominated. Since its launch in 2004, the program has contributed around $216,500 to non-profit organizations, with donations made exclusively by Bank employees.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the community leaders and community members who support our mission and join us in our endeavors. Together, we can continue to drive positive change and improve the lives of those around us.

Thank you to the organizations and individuals who nominated us for this award, as well as to Serve Nebraska and Governor Pillen for acknowledging NebraskaLand Bank’s contributions. We look forward to many more years of community service and collaboration.