Banking on service: Inside Isabella Bank’s annual community volunteer day

At Isabella Bank, service isn't just a word, it's a commitment.

Since 2018, every employee — from the corner offices to the front desks — has been encouraged to step outside their usual roles and embrace their communities with a day of dedicated volunteer work.

Known as Compassion into Action, this initiative takes place annually as the bank’s workforce spreads out across seven counties in the mid-Michigan region. Isabella Bank, based in Mount Pleasant, has two offices in Midland. Midland East is located at 210 S. Saginaw Road and Midland West is located at 2222 N. Saginaw Rd.

Courtney Jerome spoke with Isabella Bank’s community relations specialist, Amanda Tillotson, to learn more.
 
Tillotson: Every October, Isabella Bank transforms our commitment to community service into a powerful, hands-on experience with our annual event, Compassion into Action. Volunteering and giving back are at the heart of our culture, and this day reflects our dedication to making a tangible difference. Held on Columbus Day, when the bank is closed, it allows all of our employees to participate in meaningful projects at local nonprofits that address critical community needs — such as housing repairs, tackling food insecurity, or revitalizing public spaces. This day of service not only allows our employees to engage directly with the communities they serve, but it also fosters a deep sense of purpose and unity. Compassion into Action strengthens bonds between our team, our neighbors, and the organizations we support, helping to build stronger, more connected communities.
 
When did the community service day tradition first begin? And what was the inspiration behind it?

Tillotson: The tradition began in 2018 with the launch of Compassion into Action. We wanted to create an event that not only unified our employees but also gave back to the communities that are so important to us. Our team members already dedicated thousands of volunteer hours throughout the year, and we saw an opportunity to focus that collective energy on one impactful day. The event was also designed to reflect our values of compassion, community, and service. By dedicating a day entirely to volunteerism, we’re able to bring our team closer together while addressing some of the most pressing needs in the areas we serve.
 
What are some of the memorable projects Isabella Bank’s volunteers have helped on over the years?

Tillotson: Each of our Compassion into Action projects has been truly memorable, and our employees look forward to the opportunity to get out into our communities each year. Our dedication to making a difference is a core part of who we are as an organization, and it’s evident in the impact we’ve made across our entire footprint, especially in Isabella County.  Some of our most rewarding efforts include assisting seniors through the Isabella County Commission on Aging, clearing walking trails for Isabella County Parks and Recreation, assembling care bags and stocking shelves at The Care Store, preparing and serving meals at the Isabella Community Soup Kitchen, and contributing to house builds with Habitat for Humanity of Isabella County. These projects have not only strengthened our communities but also reinforced our deep commitment to service and partnership.
 
This year the annual event takes place on Mon., Oct. 14. Where will Isabella Bank staff be, and how will they be helping?

Tillotson: Our employees will be volunteering across seven counties —Isabella, Clare, Gratiot, Mecosta, Midland, Montcalm, and Saginaw. We’re partnering with 19 non-profit organizations, such as Midland County Habitat for Humanity, Isabella County Restoration House, United Way of Montcalm-Ionia Counties, and the Boys & Girls Clubs of The Great Lakes Bay Region. Our staff will be involved in a variety of projects, including home repairs, painting, food distribution, landscaping, and lots of deep cleaning. By spreading out across these counties, we’re able to help a wider range of communities and meet their specific needs. This expansion of our efforts allows us to make an even greater impact beyond our main branch, across our entire footprint.
 
What kind of impact does Compassion into Action have on Mount Pleasant and the greater Isabella County community?

Tillotson​​​​​​​: Compassion into Action has a profound impact each year by addressing critical issues like food insecurity, housing instability, and community revitalization. Our efforts provide immediate relief for organizations that are focused on long-term community resilience and development. Beyond Isabella County, our service expands into neighboring counties, allowing us to strengthen even more communities throughout the region. For our employees, it fosters a sense of purpose and connection to the places where they live and work. For the community, it demonstrates our ongoing commitment to being a trusted partner in their growth and well-being. This day of service helps build stronger, more united communities, and the positive impact of these efforts is felt long after the day ends.