Home Savings Bank Earns National Recognition for Sustainability

Home Savings Bank, based in Madison, Wisconsin, was named one of the first eco-intelligent banks in the U.S. by SustainLINK. The bank, which has four offices in Dane County, completed a qualification process to assure their commitment to climate change, environmental responsibility and societal stewardship. Only the most eco-conscious banks and credit unions in the country are designated as eco-intelligent.

"We're honored to be among the first banks recognized nationally for our commitment to sustainability. Triple bottom line practices that recognize the importance of green banking services and community investment are good for our customers, our community, and ultimately the planet," says Jim Bradley, President of Home Savings Bank. “Customers appreciate the fact that we are using the principles of the Natural Step to guide our actions.”

Home Savings Bank reviews product offerings and business practices to minimize their impact on the natural environment. The bank’s Stoughton branch was the first active solar bank office in Wisconsin, constructed in 1977. The bank’s newest branch, on East Washington Avenue in Madison, was the first LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Silver bank building in the state. All branches offer green banking choices, including checking accounts, mortgage loans, and home equity loan programs designed to reward green practices.

As a local, customer-owned bank, Home Savings Bank is committed to being a positive influence on the strength and vitality of the local economy. The bank balances financial success, customers’ needs, bank associates’ well-being, and the community’s sustainability, and is committed to educating its youngest customers. Home Savings Bank has earned an Outstanding Community Reinvestment Act rating from the FDIC for its record of lending to all income levels, and for participation in community development projects.

“Although Home Savings Bank resides in a relatively small geographic assessment tract, its average loan to deposit ratio is the highest of any bank in its geographic peer group at 96%. This represents an outstanding responsiveness to the financing needs of the community,” says Dan Parker, Chief Strategy Officer of SustainLINK. “At this juncture in our history, we expect bank depositors will seek eco-intelligent banks and credit unions as a way to align their values with their money.”

Home Savings Bank is a local, independent bank, serving Dane County since 1895. The mutual savings bank is customer-owned, and maintains a strong focus on personal attention and community responsibility. With four locations, Home Savings Bank offers individual, non-profit and business banking services to help customers build financial health and freedom.