Business Spotlight: First Citizens Community Bank

BY COLIN HEFFINGER

One of the numerous traits that sets Delaware apart is its diversified and respected business community. A walk into any local business often sparks rich, meaningful interactions, quickly building an unprecedented level of trust with clients. There’s a consistent sense of tight-knit community that extends across small businesses, large corporations, and even the brands that serve them. First Citizens Community Bank (FCCB), a full-service bank dedicated to investing in local communities, built its history on the focus of strengthening personal relationships and has been thrilled to continue their foothold of expanding branches throughout the First State.

Originally founded over 150 years ago under the name of Ross and Williams Bank, FCCB has seen excellent growth from its start in Mansfield, Pennsylvania. The bank expanded into New York, further parts of Pennsylvania throughout counties like Lancaster, Centre, Lebanon, and Schuylkill, as well as New Castle and Kent counties in Delaware, leading to a total of 33 offices. They’ve also completed a merger with Huntingdon Valley Bank, which will bring in nine more branches. Doors opened for their most recent office in Greenville’s Powder Mill Square on November 15, 2022.

James Dahlke, office manager for the Greenville branch, explains what sets FCCB apart in their approach to banking. “We’re a full-service bank that provides the same offerings as larger banks but with a focus on local decision making,” Dahlke says. “By giving the decision making to our local branch teams, we’re always available for our clients, while effectively being able to serve their needs in an efficient and personal manner.”

The word “community” in their name hints to FCCB’s commitment of uplifting surrounding neighborhoods and businesses. “As a community-focused bank, we continuously look at opportunities to give back to nonprofits and projects important to us,” Dahlke states. “We’ve pivoted in Delaware to give back through the Food Bank of Delaware’s backpack lunch program, which provides meals to children outside of school—like on holidays and weekends. Also, considering the extensive amount of farming in this area and our CEO’s background as a farmer, agricultural lending has become a huge effort for us to aid and strengthen local farms.”

Even as many banks have been opening new branches, FCCB’s Greenville location stands out as one of the only still providing security deposit boxes—an offering that is valuable to small business owners. Additionally, Dahlke takes care in investing in a team with diversified banking experience throughout Delaware, ensuring that clients are met with talented expertise in local markets. FCCB then trains each of its team members to stray away from working in silos, instead creating a collaborative atmosphere that further contributes to an efficient and specialized customer experience.

Dahlke reflects on the future of FCCB. “I’m excited for our continued growth potential in Greenville,” Dahlke explains. “Hearing the stories of our clients and being able to advise them and see the material results make this work truly meaningful. Whether it’s helping a family send their kid to college, purchase their first home, or take initial steps into retirement, the relationships and care we build for our clients lead to better, lasting results.

“Even though our roots flourished in Pennsylvania, people can rest assured they’re working with a local team dedicated to providing for their needs.”