150 Years Strong: Horizon Bank continues to celebrate their milestone anniversary

150 Years Strong: Horizon Bank continues to celebrate their milestone anniversary

Starting under the name First National Bank in 1873, Horizon Bank has proudly served Northwest Indiana for 150 years. From the beginning, Horizon Bank has worked out of Michigan City, Ind. to serve Indiana residents. It has since expanded to open branches in Michigan, making it a leading Midwest Community Bank.

Over the past 150 years, Horizon Bank has weathered the Great Depression, the World Wars, and more, leaving a legacy of perseverance and strength. This is why Horizon Bank is celebrating this milestone anniversary with the mantra “150 Years Strong.”

“Our team of Advisors are honored to continue the legacy of service that has made Horizon a leading community bank in Indiana and Michigan.  We’re proud of our history of service to our communities and look forward to continuing to make an impact,” stated Thomas Prame, Horizon’s new Chief Executive Officer.

With over $7 billion in assets, Horizon Bank certainly has managed customers’ finances with expertise and care, but its dedication to customers goes beyond the numbers. Charitable giving is a priority for Horizon Bank, which is reflected in its history of supporting various community entities through grants and donations.

Previously, Horizon Bank has provided for the community through donations and grants to Northwest Indiana American Heart Association, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana, Franciscan Health, Lubeznik Center for the Arts, United Way, the City of La Porte, the Pax Center, local high schools and elementary schools, and more.

Horizon Bank encourages its Advisors to go beyond the company-wide donations and look for volunteer opportunities for causes that personally interest them and their skill sets. With many Advisors taking on volunteer roles at non-profit organizations and volunteering their time, Horizon Bank supplies the means and manpower needed for its communities to thrive. 

“Our care for the community goes beyond finance. Through the years, our advisors have plugged into the community by finding areas of personal interest to them and volunteering their time and support,” stated Steve Kring, Regional President of Northwest Indiana.

With hands in so many different areas, Horizon Bank recognizes the importance of diversity and inclusion. This is why it established a Business Diversity Council in 2004, which is composed of individuals with varying backgrounds, ethnicities, and perspectives. This diversity helps Horizon Bank to operate with a better understanding of fairness and the unique challenges that different groups of people face.

Each Advisor at Horizon Bank respects and embraces the differences of every customer, staff member, and community member, putting the needs of others first.

“We understand how important it is to welcome people of all different backgrounds to the table to pitch ideas, which is why we started the Business and Diversity Council. Everyone brings a different perspective to the council, which is so valuable in making positive changes. On the customer end, it is important that everyone feels welcome at Horizon Bank,” stated Kathi Tilling, Assistant, Vice President, Diversity and Inclusion Officer.

To learn more about Horizon Bank’s legacy or to join its 50 Years Strong celebration, visit horizonbank.com.