April is National Volunteer Month, a time to recognize the power of service and the impact it has on the communities we serve. At American Riviera Bank, volunteering isn’t just something we do, it’s central to who we are as we “work together for the benefit of all.”
In 2025, 93 team members contributed over 4,000 community volunteer hours. Even more meaningful is the momentum behind those numbers. Participation continues to grow year over year, reflecting a culture where giving back is not only supported, it’s embraced. As we move through 2026, we’re on track to build on this success.
At ARB, our approach centers on our employees and the causes they care about. Through our community impact platform, team members can easily track their volunteer hours, discover new opportunities, and stay connected to organizations making a difference in our communities. This helps drive accountability and participation across our organization.
Matthew Limon, Client Relationship Manager and last year’s Larry Koppelman Award winner, states:
“Being part of a company that truly prioritizes community service is something I’m proud of. At ARB, we don’t just talk about making a difference; we actively invest our time and energy into the communities we serve.”
ARB also believes in recognizing those who go above and beyond. Our Volunteer of the Month program highlights team members who bring our values to life. Each month, employees who log volunteer hours are entered into a drawing to direct a $250 donation to a local nonprofit of their choice. The result has been powerful, and we’ve supported a wide range of organizations, which has deepened our connection to the areas we serve.
The impact of our volunteer efforts is best shared through the voices of our team:
Vanesa Wendler, Senior Human Resources Administrator, selected VNA Health, honoring their hospice care through their Serenity House:
“VNA provides the best possible care to our community and supports both patients and their families. Their staff truly believe in VNA’s mission and it shows in the excellent patient care that they provide.”
Daniela Mendoza, Accountant, worked with Santa Barbara Humane:
“I chose Santa Barbara Humane because their values align with mine, and I appreciate the work they do. Their commitment to providing low-cost veterinary care and affordable adoption fees and services is truly remarkable.”
Holly Mislavsky, Senior Branch Manager, spotlighted Escuela del Rio:
"Escuela del Rio is a program that offers services to the developmentally disabled people who live in North San Luis Obispo County. We love seeing the clients of EDR come to the bank to cash their checks from the various work programs they take part in. The smiles and pride they take when they arrive with checks in hand is a very heartwarming experience for my staff and I week after week."
Angela Sanchez, Senior Client Services Officer, chose to give back to the Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara:
"The Women's Fund of Santa Barbara has a huge impact on our community, empowering women and addressing critical needs of women and children."
For National Volunteer Month, Kylleen Wisham, Digital Banking Manager, chose the perfect nonprofit to receive a donation: ResQcats.
“I want to recognize ResQcats for their incredible contribution to our community. Their commitment to rescue and adoption is inspiring, but what truly sets them apart is their genuine warmth toward every cat and visitor. Thank you for being a place where ‘unadoptable’ simply means ‘extra loved,’ and for directly investing in Santa Barbara families by funding free spay and neuter surgeries to help end overpopulation. You are a shining example of a nonprofit that truly gives back to the welfare of our animals. Santa Barbara is lucky to have you!”
April also brings one of our most impactful annual initiatives: Teach Children to Save®. Financial education lays the foundation for a lifetime of confidence and independence. Through our partnership with the American Bankers Association, our team has the privilege of bringing these lessons directly into local classrooms.
Throughout the month, ARB volunteers visit schools to talk with students about saving, budgeting, and everyday financial decision-making. This month, we’re delivering lessons to over 600 students with the help of 16 dedicated team members across our bank locations. These classroom conversations help students build confidence around money management and give them tools they can use for a lifetime.
At our core, we believe that when we reinvest in our communities, everyone benefits. And we’re thankful to our team members who continue to lead with integrity.
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