Banking is about more than money; it's about neighbors helping neighbors create something special. In Chippewa Falls, the city’s treasured parks, events, and nonprofits bring people together to create a community that truly supports each other and Northwestern Bank is proud to strengthen these initiatives.

We reached out to the Northwestern Bank team to discover some of the community efforts they champion every day, in the office and beyond.

Located on Bridge Street, Northwestern Bank has continued to serve families and businesses of Chippewa Falls for over a century. They make decisions locally and keep dollars here by investing back into the communities of its employees and customers. As summer approaches, here are just a few ways Northwestern Bank continues to show up for the city it has called home for generations.

“I’m on the board of trustees for the Thorpe Foundation, whose sole purpose is to give funds to Irvine Park,” Jamie Leibrandt, the president of Northwestern Bank, said. “Irvine Park is such a special place in the community; it’s a really fun place to go out, bring the family and volunteer.”

“Together, my family and I have enjoyed countless hours at Irvine park,” he continued. “It’s a place that we hope people can continue to enjoy for many years to come.”

Heyde Center for the Arts

3 S High St., Chippewa Falls

The Heyde Center for the Arts has become a catalyst for artistic expression and community enrichment in the region. Between its revolving schedule of creative workshops, theatrical productions and musical concerts, the Heyde Center remains a vibrant destination where residents and travelers of every generation can find something to spark their interests.

As a supporter for the cultural arts center, Northwestern Bank’s team has sponsored art programming and contributed to building projects. Most recently, to the center’s efforts to increase parking accessibility.

“It was wonderful to see access to the Heyde Center improved through the addition of 27 more parking spaces,” Leibrandt said. “At the end of the day, it’s about giving people a chance to enjoy a night out in town, spend time in a historic space and experience great entertainment.”

Riverfront Park

12 S Bridge St., Chippewa Falls

Year round, you will find people enjoying the beauty of the Chippewa River from Riverfront Park. This park has become a special space to celebrate holiday traditions from the Christmas Parade with Santa, to Independence Day and the annual fireworks display. On summer evenings, families and couples enjoy the Music at the Riverfront concert series, where area musicians take the stage in one of the city’s most vibrant spaces.

As a donor to the park and event sponsor for Music at the Riverfront, Northwestern Bank invests resources and funds into the space, including hosting its own “Jazz for a Cause” event during the bank’s 120 year celebration in 2024.

“In the summertime, I often bring my entire family to Music at the Riverfront,” Nicole Nelson, a Chippewa Falls analyst at Northwestern Bank, said. “They have great music and food trucks. The kids always seem to make new friends, play tag and chase each other around the park.”

“Our parks give people a place to slow down, spend time together and feel connected,” she continued. “Part of who we are as a bank is just helping our community be strong together and giving them a space to enjoy everyday moments.”

 

Northern Wisconsin State Fair

225 Edward St., Chippewa Falls

No matter your age, the Northern Wisconsin State Fair has a way of bringing people back year after year. It’s a tradition locals grow up with and look forward to its annual return, drawn by the midway, food and creating shared memories with friends and family.  The fair – along with many of the events held at the fairgrounds – wouldn’t be the same without its volunteers.

“BBQ Fest, Farmer Appreciation Dinner, Oktoberfest, the Northern Wisconsin State Fair – there are so many great events taking place at the fairgrounds,” Greg Misfeldt, VP business banker of Northwestern Bank said. “Each has great entertainment and brings so much to the community.”

Greg annually volunteers at these events and shared, “It’s fun to see our team out there volunteering and be a part the events that bring people to Chippewa Falls.”

"Our parks give people a place to slow down, spend time together and feel connected. Part of who we are as a bank is just helping our community be strong together and giving them a space to enjoy everyday moments." –Nicole Nelson, Chippewa Falls analyst at Northwestern Bank

Community Mission

Beyond the vibrant parks, local festivities and cultural landmarks of Chippewa Falls, the Northwestern Bank team remains deeply committed to enrich the lives of their neighbors and strengthen its local community through donations and dedicated volunteer efforts. From the Boys & Girls Club of the Chippewa Valley - Chippewa Falls, Agnes’ Table, to the area’s YMCA programming, the team is passionate about helping its community. It is the bank’s privilege to champion local organizations and causes whenever possible.

“It’s really special to see how our community looks out for one another and finds ways to bring people together,” Tracey Smiskey, the CEO of Northwestern Bank, said. “Spending time volunteering at local events and places like Agnes’ Table reminds you just how meaningful those connections are. Even small acts of service can brighten someone’s day and make them feel supported.”

“Our mission as a bank is building stronger communities where people matter,” she continued. “Chippewa Falls is a strong community made up of people who really show up for one another and we are proud to support where we can.”

---

Visit northwesternbank.com or follow them on social media (@northwesternbankwisconsin) to see more of their community involvement in real time. Stop into any branch location to learn about financial options for you, your family and your business. Member FDIC.

Northwestern Bank

Phone (Chippewa Falls location): (715) 723-4461

Address (Chippewa Falls location): 202 N. Bridge St.

Online: northwesternbank.com

PARTNER CONTENT