One hundred and fifty years ago, a small bank opened in Mansfield, Pa., with the goal of building a better community. Now known as First Citizens Community Bank (FCCB), the financial institution is still going strong, with 31 offices throughout Pennsylvania, New York and Delaware. To mark the sesquicentennial anniversary, each branch of the bank will hold a party on Friday, July 22. The Mount Joy branch, located at 720 E. Main St., will offer food and prizes.

"The celebration is open to anybody, not just bank customers," said Carl Hackman, branch manager of the Mount Joy location. "It's about customer appreciation, but it's also about letting people know that we're here for the community." The celebration will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will also feature lots of giveaways.

The Mount Joy branch opened six years ago, and the staff has worked hard to connect with the community. "We believe in giving back to the community in which we serve," Hackman stated. "We support local nonprofits and other groups." In addition to being a member of the Mount Joy Chamber of Commerce, the bank has been a financial supporter of Rainbow's End Youth Services, among other organizations.

Hackman noted that FCCB is the third-largest agriculture lender in the state and ranks in the top 60 for ag lending in the country. "We believe in supporting farmers," he remarked. "They are the lifeblood of our community. We wouldn't exist as a society without them."

FCCB has held events throughout the year to mark the anniversary, and the bank sees a bright future. "We are very aware of and humbled by how fortunate we are to have had the ability to successfully serve our communities for such a long time," stated Randall E. Black, CEO and president. "Building better communities has been the greatest joy in all of this. ... Our success is the direct result of the hard work of our loyal employees, and I think it's time we tell our story and let them shine. I'm so very grateful to all of them for embracing the spirit of a true community bank."

Hackman said FCCB believes in creating better communities by connecting with customers. "A community bank can give personal contact," he commented. "People know who to go to if there's an issue or a problem. There's nothing like having that relationship with your customers. Strong relationships are important to us."