Community Impact

At Forward Bank, we are dedicated to enriching our communities in Wisconsin and Minnesota through a variety of unique programs and events that bring people together and support local schools.

Volunteering, Sponsorships, and Donations

At Forward Bank, our commitment to the community goes beyond financial services — we actively invest our time, resources, and support to make a positive impact. Our team members volunteer at local events, serve on boards, and participate in community activities, reflecting our dedication to being involved and engaged.

We proudly sponsor a wide range of local events, from festivals and charity runs to educational workshops and community celebrations. Our support also extends to larger capital projects that benefit our communities, such as funding new football fields, playgrounds, and community centers.

Through these efforts, Forward Bank strengthens the fabric of our local towns, helping to build a better future for all who live and work here.

Let Us Help Move Your Community Forward

Scholarship Program

At Forward Bank, we believe in investing in students because they are the future of our communities. By providing scholarship opportunities, we help support their educational journey and encourage growth in fields that strengthen our local economy. Our scholarships are designed to recognize hard work, ambition, and dedication to learning.

2025 Submission Deadline: Friday, March 21, 2025

Forward Bank Scholarship

A Forward Bank ($1,000) scholarship will be awarded to one individual in each community that Forward serves, for a total of 15 scholarships. Preference will be given to students pursuing a degree in Finance, Business, or Agriculture. [Download Application]

Bob Lotzer Employee Scholarship

Current employees and children of current employees are eligible to apply for this $1,000 Bob Lotzer Scholarship. Preference will be given to students pursuing a degree in Finance, Business or Agriculture. [Download Application]

NEW! Dick Mills Legacy Scholarship

A $1,000 scholarship will be awarded to one student in the Lake City, MN market. This scholarship honors former Lake City Federal Bank CEO Dick Mills. [Download Application]

Art Contest

At Forward Bank, we believe creativity is just as valuable as any career path. Yet, arts programs—often the first to face budget cuts—play a key role in fostering innovation and critical thinking. Our annual Art Contest supports these students and programs, reinforcing that creative skills have real-world value.

Open to students in grades 9-12, this contest allows young artists to explore a theme and showcase their talent. One student from each participating school will be awarded a $250 cash prize, with an additional $250 donated to their school’s art program.

All entries will be displayed at the nearest Forward Bank location. In early May, a reception will be held to showcase all submissions and announce the winners.

2025 Submission Deadline: Friday, March 21, 2025

[Download Submission Form]

We invite students to share their vision, embrace their creativity, and see the value in their artistic future!

  • Community Impact

  • 10,043

    Volunteer Hours in 2024

  • $853,297

    Donations in 2024

  • $2.5 Million

    CMMA donations since inception

Previous Athletic Challenges

From 2015 to 2023, Forward Bank brought excitement to local high school sports with our $5,000 challenges, including the Touchdown Throw, Shot on Goal, and Half-Court Shot. At each event, fans were randomly selected to participate for a chance to win $2,500 for themselves and $2,500 for their school’s athletic program. Even if the attempt was unsuccessful, Forward Bank donated $250 to the hosting school’s athletic department. Over the years, we celebrated 15 winners, all while supporting local sports programs.

While these programs have now retired, we remain committed to supporting our local schools and communities in new and meaningful ways.

Join Us in Making a Difference

Whether it’s through scholarships, partnerships with local charities, or community events, Forward Bank remains dedicated to fostering a strong, vibrant community. Together, we can create lasting positive impacts for everyone we serve.

Forward Momentum

Recent Articles: Community Giving

  • Community Giving | February 13, 2025

    Forward Bank Donates $19,000 to City of Greenwood Sign Project

    Read More

  • Community Giving | February 3, 2025

    Forward Bank Donates $50K to Medford VFW Project

    Read More

  • Community Giving | January 22, 2025

    Forward Advisory Committee Powers Community Giving in Lake City

    Read More

  • Community Giving | January 2, 2025

    Forward Commits $100,000 to R.E.C. Center in Medford

    Read More

Insurance and Investment products are *Not FDIC Insured *No Bank Guarantee *May Lose Value *Not Insured by Any Federal Government Agency *Not a Deposit