First National Bank Bemidji proudly announces its status as a verified AARP BankSafe organization through the attainment of the BankSafe certification, a significant milestone in the bank’s ongoing dedication to safeguarding its customers from financial exploitation.

The BankSafe certification, awarded by AARP, highlights First National Bank Bemidji’s proactive approach to addressing financial exploitation targeting vulnerable populations. By earning this certification, the bank underscores its adherence to industry best practices and standards in detecting and preventing financial exploitation, thereby enhancing trust and confidence among its customers and the wider community.

“To achieve BankSafe certification is a testament to our unwavering commitment to protecting our customers and upholding the highest standards of integrity,” said Amy Haskell, Executive Vice President and Chief Risk Officer of First National Bank Bemidji. “This certification reinforces our pledge to safeguarding the financial well-being of our customers and underscores our proactive stance in combating financial exploitation.”

To earn the BankSafe certification, all First National Bank Bemidji staff underwent comprehensive training tailored to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively identify, respond to, and prevent instances of financial exploitation. The training covered various topics, including recognizing warning signs of financial exploitation, understanding relevant laws and regulations, implementing appropriate reporting protocols for suspicious activity, and fostering a culture of vigilance, empathy, and understanding toward vulnerable customers.

Through this rigorous training initiative, First National Bank Bemidji ensures that its entire workforce is equipped to play a proactive role in safeguarding the financial well-being of its customers, reinforcing its reputation as a trusted financial institution committed to integrity and customer protection.

About First National Bank

For over 125 years, First National Bank Bemidji has served Bemidji’s businesses and families. It is a community bank – investing in local people and their dreams – and celebrating the successes that enhance quality of life. First National Bank Bemidji has had a partnership with Bemidji for generations. In 1985, our employees invested in the bank through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). This means we’ll always be Bemidji’s bank because we are owned by employees, certifying that we will be your banking partner for generations.

First National Bank Bemidji is a member of the FDIC and an Equal Housing Lender.