In January 1915, a local group determined there was a need for a new community bank and chartered what is known today as Lake Region Bank. That 110-year history is full of changes but also constantly focusing on customer service and community engagement. The last 55 years have added community philanthropy as a core value for the bank, now solely owned by the Vollan family.
“My dad Paul really introduced giving back into the bank culture in the 1970’s,” notes Clark Vollan, President of Lake Region Bank. “He encouraged all of us to get involved in local endeavors and modeled us being a true community bank chartered to help grow the communities we serve. A community bank is a solid indicator of a strong community, and we are proud of our commitment to our region.”
Lake Region Bank is full of people who not only enjoy banking but love people. “You aren’t just a number to us. We know you by name, know your family, support your business and invest into the community because we are your neighbors and we know it matters,” adds Haley Schrupp, Operations Associate and part of the third generation of Vollan family helming the bank.
Mike Malone, Vice President of the commercial banking team at Lake Region, shares “When I started at the bank, I was encouraged to pick something to get involved with. The bank allows paid time to volunteer, we support many community causes and organizations, and we treat one another like a family. That has led to many long-term staff who truly love it here because we care about one another beyond our jobs. It’s an extraordinary company who cares about its people, customers and community more than the bottom line.”
Examples of Lake Region Bank’s impact locally can be easily found in local non-profits they support or lead as donors to essential services like local ambulance and emergency services. Clark Vollan commented, “We are proud of a recent gift to help the Sunburg Ambulance secure needed equipment to better serve our communities. That equipment was used immediately, helping a neighbor in need, and it was a game changer. It will save lives, and we are so grateful we were part of that. It’s important that we all do what we can to help because doing it together is how it all gets worked out.”
110 years of banking history, countless examples of generosity and an unwavering commitment to the region they serve make Lake Region Bank more than deserving of the 2025 Community Builder Award from the Willmar Area Community Foundation. Congratulations to their team!