Local Cents by Pillar Bank

National Teach Children to Save Day

This episode of Local Cents highlights the importance of financial literacy for children's future well-being. Pillar Bank's educational initiatives, like the Teach Kids to Save program, involve employees reading stories and leading interactive bank tours to teach money management.
 
Key takeaways emphasize early financial education, enjoyable learning, community involvement, and ongoing learning for all ages.

Power of Pillar

The Pillar Community Circle is an employee-led committee at Pillar Bank that aims to enhance community engagement through volunteer work.
 
This episode of Local Cents highlights the value of volunteering during Wisconsin Banker’s Association (WBA) Power of Community Week, as well as throughout the year.
 
Listen to this podcast to hear how the committee seeks to involve the community in these efforts, fostering shared responsibility. Plus, employees share experiences from volunteering with local organizations such as those focused on food insecurity and housing, which boosts team morale and strengthens community ties.

What's in the Chippewa Falls Community?

In this episode of Local Cents, Neil Mathwig and Derek Kuehni of Pillar Bank discuss what makes Chippewa Falls a great place to live. They highlight the town's unique charm, local amenities, and organizations like the Chippewa Falls YMCA, led by Derek White, that foster a strong sense of community. Discover how collaboration and involvement with the YMCA enhance residents' lives and strengthen the town.

Beyond the Hammer

In this Local Cents episode, Lori Davis of Pillar Bank and Adam Ashley of Ashley Construction discuss the evolving world of homebuilding. Topics include rising costs, design trends, and the changing labor market. They also delve into the Chippewa Valley Home Builders Association (CVHBA) and how its Foundation's "Tools to Schools" initiative helps students explore construction careers.

Spring Valley Community

Introducing Erik Thompson, a devoted Retail Banking Supervisor at Pillar Bank, who's been serving the Spring Valley community for over 10 years. This charming town boasts thriving businesses, rich history, and stunning landmarks like Crystal Cave and the Midwest's largest dam, creating a welcoming atmosphere where people feel at home. Pillar Bank is proud to be a part of this vibrant community and eagerly anticipates continuing to grow and prosper together.

Vacation, Christmas and Kids Clubs – Something for Everyone

Get your headphones ready for a thrilling experience! The Pillar Bank podcast, featuring Retail Banking Director Chris Olson, is packed with insider knowledge and exclusive tips from the world of community banking that you won't want to miss.In search of an extraordinary gift idea? Our Christmas and Vacation Clubs are here for you! Fun fact: You don't have to limit yourself to using these clubs just for holidays or vacations. Although we recommend keeping funds in the account until maturity, you have the flexibility to use the money for any special occasion or milestone. The possibilities are endless!Got young savers in your life? Introduce them to our amazing Kid's Club, designed for youth aged 16 and younger. You don't need to be a parent to give this incredible gift – aunts, uncles, grandparents, and other caring adults can join in on the fun too! Share the joy of smart financial habits while unlocking exclusive perks and benefits tailored just for the young financiers.

State of the Bank Address

In this annual podcast address, Pillar Bank’s CEO Shane Bauer shares 2024 highlights including addition of its seventh location in Amery, WI, and how its culture has been enhanced since implementing Pillar Bank Principles. Also hear about the bank’s focus on youth, education, and community betterment through its ‘reverse mentorship’ initiatives in 2025.

Leaving a Philanthropic Legacy through a Community Foundation

Discover the role of a community foundation in helping individuals, families, and businesses leave a legacy for what’s most important to them. Whether it’s for early childhood education, the arts, your hometown, mental health, affordable housing, the environment, or whatever makes your heart sing, a legacy gift forever makes good.
Listen in as Heather Logelin, President/CEO of the St. Croix Valley Foundation which serves six counties across western WI and eastern MN, and Rick Bonlender, a Commercial Banker with Pillar Bank and volunteer member of SCV’s Foundation Board of Directors, discuss how the SCV Foundation works. Learn about the giving side including how funds are prudently invested and how the earned interest is used to annually award grants to recipients. This episode is chock full of information including how to use the SCV Foundation as a planning source.

Check Fraud Prevention for Your Business

Businesses are being targeted by fraudsters who are going back to the basics. One technique is to intercept checks and ‘wash’ them by replacing the payee and dollar amount. Pillar Bank’s Treasury Management Director, Lisa Lyon, discusses the rise in check fraud which started during the pandemic and shares valuable tips on safeguarding your business from this threat. Discover essential measures like monitoring your account daily, setting notifications, and utilizing tools like Positive Pay to protect your business finances.

Corn, Beans and Florida – Inside the Ag Business

Pillar Bank’s Ag Lender, Mike DeLong, interviews and jokes around with client Gary Larson of Larson Ag Ventures. Gary discusses his farming background, passion for agriculture, and the joys of managing 3,000 acres with various crops. He highlights the importance of community support, mentorship, and embracing successes and failures within the industry, maintaining that it all evens out over time. Listen in to hear one farmer’s perspective on the Ag industry.