It was about a year ago when I met with a local bank CEO who had served on our board of directors. I occasionally schedule a meeting with him to get input on 3 or 4 items I’m working on. One was an offer of advertizing space at the Jet Blue terminal at the Long Beach Airport. It sounded like a good deal that would provide a number of impressions to potential donors. He didn’t think it was that good of a proposition for the cost involved; but he did have a suggestion . . .
What we need, he advised, is a commercial spot in which a local dignitary endorses the work we do helping the homeless and changing lives . . . someone who truly trusts our organization. So who would he suggest do this for us, I asked? Without much hesitation he said he would do it. I marveled that in the tough financial markets we find ourselves that this business leader would stretch himself and his company. But he is no stranger to challenge . . . his family has persevered for generations helping not only the business community of Long Beach and the surrounding area, but supporting charitable work as well.
In the midst of financial difficulty and uncertainty for the Long Beach Rescue Mission, Henry Walker, CEO of Farmers & Merchants Bank stepped into the gap, making a significant investment to challenge individuals and businesses to support the work we do.
Thank you, Henry, for following your family tradition of giving back to the least, the last, and the lost.
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2 comments:
The Walkers and F&M Bank have been a huge shaping force in our city. Thank you Henry for keeping that direction and tradition alive. The founders of the United States wanted us to use our time and resources wisely and help each other. Jim, thank you for playing such a big part in making our community a better place to live.
Mike Kimmel
Jim-
Awesome. Well done! It was great to speak with you today. Let me know if we can help in any other way.
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