This Native American owned bank is an active part of the surrounding community. It provides support to local charities such as the Senior Citizens' home, area 4-H groups, Shriners, Cancer Society and other local community groups. The bank does not utilize answering machines or automated voice routing systems. Instead, when a customer phones the bank for a balance or inquiry about their account, a person is at the other end of the line to provide that service. Many locals in the community who do not have an account with the bank are given the convenience of cashing their paycheck without any associated fees.
Employees dress casual to provide a more approachable feel for the customers.
During the meeting and tour of the Bank of Cherokee County, customers gave accounts of their experiences of applying for loans at some institutions and how they were unable to secure loans. They also indicated that they felt less intimidated walking into their local community bank. This was also an opportunity to hear some of the concerns of the community. Mr. Chapman informed us that he had not looked into ETA sm as an option for his customers. Some of his customers have already made arrangements to receive their payments via Direct Deposit.