LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – The Independent Bankers Association of Texas, the largest state community banking association in the nation, recently honored First United Bank with a Best of Community Banking Award.
The bank received a Silver Eagle Award in the Community Service category for its “Fueling Educators, Strengthening Communities” entry.
For 30 years, First United Bank’s Teacher Appreciation Cookouts have honored the educators, administrators, coaches and school staff who help shape communities across West Texas.
Founded in 1995 by Ray M. Bain and inspired by his wife Barbara’s career in education, the program has grown from a small local gathering into an annual effort that now reaches more than 3,500 educators through 27 cookouts across 23 communities.
First United Bank fully funds, manages and staffs the program, with more than 50 employee volunteers each year preparing and serving meals, distributing classroom gifts, and connecting with local school districts.
Held before the beginning of each school year, the cookouts provide an opportunity for bank employees to recognize educators while strengthening relationships with the schools and communities they serve.
Through three decades of continued investment and employee involvement, the Teacher Appreciation Cookouts have become a longstanding First United Bank tradition and reflect the bank’s commitment to education and the communities it serves.
2026 marks the 35th year that IBAT has celebrated the accomplishments of Texas community banks with the Best of Community Banking Awards.
The competition is designed to honor local banks for their commitment to helping their customers, neighbors, employees and community. Awards recognize community banks throughout the state for their innovation, creativity and success in fulfilling a specific community or internal need.
All gold, silver and bronze submissions can be viewed at www.ibat.org. For more information about First United Bank’s submission and the program it highlights, contact Lexie Gilmour at (806) 647-8468.
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