2025 #RiseUp4Families: A Year of Showing Up
At Dream First Bank, #RiseUp4Families has never been about numbers or recognition. It’s about people. It’s about being present when life takes an unexpected turn and standing beside our neighbors when they need support the most.
In 2025, that mission took many forms. Some joyful. Some heartbreaking. All deeply meaningful.
When Life Changes Without Warning
This year, we walked alongside families facing unimaginable circumstances.
One story that stays with us involved two young adults in their twenties who suddenly became caregivers for their mother after she was diagnosed with terminal cancer. As her condition worsened, she was transferred to a hospital far from home, creating emotional and financial strain as her children tried to balance work, caregiving, and travel. We were able to help support them during that time.
Tragically, the stress took a devastating toll. The son passed away unexpectedly, and just two weeks later, his mother also passed away. Their daughter was left to navigate grief and rebuild her life alone. Once again, #RiseUp4Families was there to help her take the next steps forward.
Stories like this remind us why this program exists. Sometimes help doesn’t fix what’s broken, but it can make the weight a little easier to carry.
Paying It Forward, Together
One of the most powerful moments of 2025 came from a man who had received help through #RiseUp4Families after being injured in a farm accident the year before. When he returned to us, it wasn’t to ask for anything. It was to give.
He made a donation back to the initiative and asked that it be used to help others in his community facing health challenges. Because of his generosity, four additional families received support. It was a perfect example of how compassion creates ripples far beyond a single moment.
Supporting Families at Every Stage
Throughout the year, #RiseUp4Families helped close to 100 individuals and families facing difficult circumstances, including:
- Families who lost their homes to fire or suffered damage from tornadoes
- Parents caring for children with serious illnesses
- Individuals managing cancer treatments and other complex medical conditions
- Families traveling long distances to receive critical medical care
- People affected by work-related accidents or serious roadway incidents
- Grandparents who unexpectedly stepped in to care for a newborn and three young siblings
Each situation was different, but the heart of the work remained the same: meeting people where they are and helping them move forward.
Community Efforts That Bring Us Together
Alongside individual assistance, community involvement continued to be a cornerstone of #RiseUp4Families in 2025.
We hosted our annual golf tournament, bringing community members together around a shared purpose. We proudly brought back our bike drive, helping kids experience the simple joy of riding and the freedom that comes with it.
Our Stuff the Turkey food drive once again filled shelves at local charities. Each branch selected a local organization to receive donations, reinforcing our commitment to serving the unique needs of every community we’re part of.
During the holiday season, we helped brighten Christmas for families and individuals through angel tree gifts for kids and grandparents in nursing homes, because no one should feel forgotten during a time meant for connection.
Looking Ahead
As we reflect on 2025, we’re filled with gratitude for the trust our communities place in us and for the opportunity to make a difference when it matters most.
#RiseUp4Families isn’t a program we run once a year. It’s a promise we keep every day. And as we look ahead, we remain committed to showing up, lending a hand, and continuing this work with empathy, humility, and heart.
Because when one family and community rise, we all do!