Independent Bank closed its offices on Columbus Day/Indigenous People’s Day, October 9, 2023, to participate in its eighth annual all-employee volunteer day. Over 800 Independent Bank employees took part in “Be the Difference Day,” where they volunteered at over 80 different projects across Michigan and parts of Ohio.
The Bank also donated $140,000 to the various organizations in which they volunteered. These funds were compiled of employee Jeans Day donations, in which employees contributed funds to wear jeans on Fridays, as well as a match and additional contribution from Independent Bank.
Every year, employees look forward to this day and the opportunity to give back to their local communities. In Grand Rapids, employees packed monthly food boxes for seniors with Kent County Community Action, removed invasive species with Kent County Parks, and helped build a home with Habitat for Humanity of Kent County. In Lansing, employees helped out at Potter Park Zoo and Fenner Nature Center; and in Bay City, employees assisted at Bay Veterans Foundation and cleaned up at the Friends of Pine Ridge Cemetery. 
“Be the Difference Day is an event that our employees truly look forward to all year long,” said Brad Kessel, President and CEO of Independent Bank. “Being able to get out into our local communities and work together to make a positive difference while partnering with so many wonderful organizations is something we are extremely proud of and grateful to be part of each year.”
Click here to learn more about Be the Difference Day.
Equal Housing Lender