Community Commitment

For over 90 years, First Hope Bank has prided itself on being a community bank. Part of that community commitment is assisting local organizations and charities. Here are some of the community initiatives we are proud to support:

First Hope Bank, a “Bank of Promise,” works with the American Bankers Association and America’s Promise, a national organization, to improve the lives of our youth. “America’s Promise,” a nationwide catalyst, urges public, private and non-profit organizations to focus their combined talents and resources for improving the lives of our youth.

During the 2001-2002 School Year, First Hope Bank began donating a financial literacy curriculum to local schools. To date, these primary grade materials are in use in 18 public and private schools. Written by New York Times best-selling author Neale S. Godfrey, the Common Cents Financial Literacy Program teaches financial life skills to children in a fun and engaging manner. As a financial institution, we can think of no better way to serve our communities than by educating our children about their financial futures. To date, First Hope has invested over $130,000 on this initiative.

In large part because of First Hope's commitment to the Common Cents Curriculum, New Jersey is the first state in the Union with the goal of financially educating all its children.

First Hope Associates regularly visit local schools in an effort to educate young people about the value of saving.

First Hope Bank has been working on a wide array of initiatives with Pass It Along, a private, non-profit organization headquartered in Sussex County. During September 2005, First Hope and Pass It Along teamed up on a major relief effort for those displaced by Hurricane Katrina. Area residents donated a number of items to Katrina survivors including health kits, school kits, toiletry and baby items, food and clothing.
 
First Hope and Pass It Along participate in efforts each year to collect coats for those in need. First Hope, Northwest Community Action Program (NORWESCAP) and Pass It Along also join in efforts to collect gifts for families in need during the Holiday season.

For its extensive work with Pass It Along, First Hope received the organization's 2003, 2004 and 2005 Philanthropic Award. 

"I am proud of the commitment that our Associates have demonstrated toward these Pass It Along projects," said Bank President Norman E. Beatty. "It is gratifying to see our Associates donate their time and talent to benefit those in need."

In early 2007, First Hope was among the organizations honored by United Way of Warren County with Community Caring awards for increased giving over the previous year.

First Hope Bank also earned Hope Township’s Business of the Year honor in February of 2007.