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At First Bankers Trust, community isn't just a buzzword—it's who we are. From Quincy to Springfield, Macomb to Mendon, and Rushville to Carthage, these communities aren’t just places we operate; they're where we live, raise our families, and build lasting relationships. We take immense pride in supporting our neighbors' dreams, uplifting local businesses, and investing in the people who make West Central Illinois extraordinary. 

We deeply value you, our customers, and the vibrant communities you help create. Guided by our simple, yet powerful mission—do what's right, strive to be better each day, and never forget that big dreams are built from small, meaningful actions—we're committed to helping you achieve your goals. Here's how we've translated these principles into impactful actions throughout the first quarter of 2025. 

Strengthening Our Community Through Meaningful Contributions 

Donation to United Way of Adams County 

In February, First Bankers Trust made an important donation of $21,118 to the United Way of Adams County. This contribution directly supports United Way's essential community programs focused on education, financial stability, and promoting healthy living for children and adults.  

Our partnership with United Way represents our shared commitment to creating lasting, positive change in our local community. Learn more about United Way of Adams County. 

Support for Adams County Bicentennial Commission 

We were thrilled to donate $10,000 to the Adams County Bicentennial Commission in anticipation of the county’s upcoming 200th-anniversary celebrations. This significant milestone provides a unique opportunity to reflect on Adams County's rich history since its founding in 1825.  

The year-long celebration planned by the Bicentennial Commission will showcase historical insights, community engagement activities, and educational events, honoring the county's past and affirming the foundations for its future. Explore Adams County Bicentennial. 

Commitment to Community Events and Local Support 

Our team has enthusiastically supported multiple local initiatives across Quincy, Springfield, Carthage, Macomb, Mendon, and Rushville already this year. Our sponsorship of the Hancock County CEO Class students' pitch competition provided young entrepreneurs with valuable opportunities to refine their business ideas and gain critical exposure to local business leaders. We cannot wait to see how these future entrepreneurs add to the rich story of our region. Read more about Hancock County. 

We also proudly supported Hope for Horizons 2025, an organization dedicated to addressing food insecurity in our community. By contributing to this cause, we ensure vital resources and supportive services reach those in greatest need. Discover Hope for Horizons. 

Additionally, our sponsorship of the O’Fallon Neighbors Pickleball Classic highlighted our commitment to promoting community health, recreation, and financial assistance for local families facing challenging times. Find out more about O’Fallon Neighbors. 

Your involvement matters. Volunteer, join local initiatives, or simply be there for your neighbors. Together, we build stronger, more vibrant communities across Western Illinois. 

Celebrating Our Team’s Dedication and Excellence 

Our greatest asset is our incredible team. The exceptional commitment and hard work they demonstrate every day inspire us to do our best. We celebrate their dedication daily—and especially recognize these recent milestones: 

  • Gina Bailie reached an incredible milestone—32 years with First Bankers Trust. Gina’s longstanding dedication exemplifies loyalty, consistency, and professionalism, setting an inspiring standard for all team members. 
     
  • We proudly recognized Jennifer Protsman's well-deserved promotion to Sr. Universal Banker. Jennifer’s advancement demonstrates our commitment to nurturing talent within our organization, providing clear pathways for professional growth and rewarding outstanding performance. 
     
  • Melisa Heimann celebrated an impressive 19 years with First Bankers Trust. Melisa's continued dedication, exceptional work ethic, and warm presence inspire our team daily. Congratulations, Melisa—we’re so grateful to have you! 
     

To our entire team: your dedication makes everything we do possible. Thank you. 

Cultivating Fun and Appreciation at First Bankers Trust 

When people love what they do, everyone wins. Friendship, family values, and fun are all part of how we do our best to make each day on the job a pleasure. We kicked this year off with events aimed at fostering a vibrant, people-first workplace culture. 

Our Staff Appreciation Pizza Luncheon on March 7th provided a special opportunity to personally thank employees company-wide, highlighting their valuable contributions and unwavering commitment. It was a joyous gathering that reinforced our collective spirit and mutual appreciation. 

Our Fun Calendar initiatives have continued to boost morale, foster meaningful connections, and enrich our workplace: 

  • January’s Virtual Bingo sparked joy, camaraderie, and friendly competition, offering exciting prizes like an Amazon Echo Bot and branded FBTC lawn chairs. 
  • February’s Spring BYOF Potluck filled our branches with delicious meals, allowing team members to showcase culinary skills and strengthen team bonds. 
  • March’s Bank Shot Bracket Madness energized employees with spirited competition, friendly rivalry, and much-anticipated bragging rights. 
  • Remote Brews, led by Michele Walgren, became a beloved initiative connecting remote employees, ensuring continuous interaction, unity, and team spirit, even from afar. 

Customer Highlight: Beau Becraft 

Supporting local entrepreneurs like Quincy’s own Beau Becraft reminds us why we’re passionate about community banking. Beau produces advertising for clients all over the world—yet remains deeply committed to his hometown roots. Whether it’s commercial campaigns, narration, or radio spots, Beau’s work blends professionalism with personality, just like our team at First Bankers Trust. 

“Not only do they handle my business needs for my voice-over and radio endeavors, but we've been personal banking customers for close to a decade now. At this point, I can't imagine using anyone else.”  
— Beau Becraft 

We’re honored to earn Beau’s trust every day. His story reflects why we’re passionate about providing business banking solutions that work—and delivering personal banking services you can count on, year after year. 

👉 Read Beau’s full story | Explore Beau’s work 

Ready to Build What’s Next? 

We’re here for your next chapter—whether it’s a new home, growing your small business, or buying your dream car. Our local experts understand what matters most in communities like Quincy, Springfield, Carthage, Macomb, Rushville, O'Fallon, St. Charles and Mendon—because we live here, too. 

Explore services designed with you in mind: 

Stay Connected With Us 

Be part of our journey. Follow along as we celebrate community wins, spotlight local leaders, and share exciting updates. 

👉 Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn 

Building a Brighter Future, Together 

Strong communities grow from dedicated people. We’re proud to stand alongside you, investing in our shared future. If you see ways we can improve or have feedback, we'd genuinely love to hear it. Your voice helps us shape our community for the better. 

👉 Take our 5-minute survey – your input makes a difference.