From bustling food banks to tranquil cemeteries, and from animal shelters to youth centers, volunteers from Southern Michigan Bank & Trust (SMBT) traded briefcases for garden gloves and spreadsheets for paintbrushes during their annual Community Service Day—an event that continues to grow in reach, meaning, and momentum.

This year, teams fanned out across six counties in Southern Michigan, partnering with over two dozen local organizations to uplift neighborhoods, support those in need, and care for the places and people that matter most. Their work was as diverse as it was meaningful.

Among the many places touched were Altrusa Happy Feet, Branch County Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence, and Coach Eby Youth and Family Center, where volunteers helped advance missions rooted in support and safety. At Twelve Baskets Food Pantry, South Michigan Food Bank, and Good Better Best Thrift Store, teams assisted in meeting critical needs in the fight against food and housing insecurity.

Others gave their energy to beautification projects, including hands-on care at Newton Township Cemetery, Oak Grove Cemetery, and throughout the City of Hillsdale, showing that every act of service—no matter how quiet—adds value to the shared spaces we all call home.

Animal lovers found purpose at St. Joseph Animal Control and the Branch County Humane Society, while still more SMBT employees brought joy and connection to residents at Edgewood Health and Rehabilitation, Arbor North Living Center, and Maple Lawn Medical Care Facility.

Youth and sports programs also saw a boost in energy and spirit as SMBT teams volunteered with Union City Athletic Fields, Jackson Area Club Soccer, Tekonsha Community Schools, and more. Other impactful stops included the Village of Union City, There’s Enough Free Store, Portage Community Center, and the Salvation Army of Sturgis.