CENTIER BANK RECOGNIZED AS A 2024 BUSINESS PARTNER OF THE YEAR BY TRADEWINDS SERVICES

MERRILLVILLE, IND. – Centier Bank, Indiana’s largest private, family-owned bank, was recognized by TradeWinds Services as a 2024 Business Partner of the Year at its annual luncheon. In addition, the bank’s own Jess Martinez-Garcia, who serves as a Financial Education Specialist, was also recognized as Volunteer of the Year at the event

TradeWinds, a Merrillville-based nonprofit, provides programs for children of all abilities and adults with physical and developmental disabilities. The organization aims to empower people of all ages to realize their full potential. Centier Bank is an ongoing supporter of TradeWinds, most recently donating $7,500, in support of its outreach and programming.

“We are honored to be recognized as one of TradeWinds’ Business Partners of the Year,” said Michael E. Schrage, Centier Bank’s Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board. “This award underscores the servant heart culture cultivated by our passionate team members who live out Centier Bank’s commitment to the communities we serve each day.”

For the past two years, Martinez-Garcia has taught financial literacy lessons for TradeWinds’ Transitional Vocational Training and Career Services programs. She also volunteers monthly at the organization’s community food pantry.

In addition to her TradeWinds volunteer work, Martinez-Garcia donates her time to other organizations throughout northwest Indiana, including St. Jude House, Meals on Wheels, Girl Scouts of America, Geminus, and Junior Achievement.

“It is inspiring to be surrounded by fellow Centier Bank employees who truly care about others and want to make an impact,” Martinez-Garcia said. “The culture of Centier Bank encourages me to channel my passion for service into my community.”

To learn more about TradeWinds Services, visit https://www.tradewindsnwi.org.