LaVale, Md. – December 2, 2011 – Standard Bank welcomes Gina Smith as a new customer service specialist at  the LaVale Community Banking Office (CBO).  Smith is a lifelong resident of nearby Frostburg and comes to Standard Bank with four years of banking experience. 

When asked what she enjoys most about working at a community bank, Smith says, “I love helping people make their dreams come true by helping in the new home process or making a 16-year-old’s dream of a new car come true.  This is a very rewarding occupation, and I look forward to a long, successful career with Standard Bank.”  Smith goes on to explain, “I am excited to be a part of a bank that is so involved with the community, especially in helping raise funds for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.  It has helped so many children in our community!”  Smith, who is no stranger to helping raise money for children, is currently training to run a half marathon in Disneyworld on January 7 for Leukemia.  Standard Bank feels that Smith is a great example of how community bank associates are involved in the communities in which they work. 

Community banks improve America’s communities by funding nearly 60 percent of all small businesses under $1 million and by using local dollars to help families purchase homes, buy a car, finance college and build financial security. By driving local economies and creating local jobs, community banks are an integral part of our financial system and play a key role in our nation’s economic recovery.