LABELLE -- The Greater LaBelle Chamber of Commerce has proudly announced First Bank as their recipient of the Chamber’s 2021 Business of the Year Award. “First Bank is deeply rooted in our Community, and has always been a great supporter of the LaBelle Chamber” Executive Director, Diane Fidanza explained. “It is our great pleasure to award them this honor as they approach their 100th anniversary."

First Bank opened its doors for business in November 1922. Their original charter from the State of Florida was under the name First Bank of Clewiston which was in Lee County at that time. First Bank was here when Hendry County was birthed, and they have been eyewitnesses and participants of the growth in all our communities. Our communities have served as their “hometown, main street bank” from the very beginning. They know they were “the first”, and they strive every day to be “the very best."  First Bank is proud that over the years they have held fast to the importance of Community Banking!

From their inauspicious beginning in Clewiston in 1922, they have grown to provide the same hometown, friendly service in five counties with seven full-service offices today. From the beginning with $2,500 in assets to today with nearly $600 million, they remain the trusted, community bank for friends, family, and local businesses.

Their first LaBelle office opened in 1981 on Highway 80/Hickpochee Blvd (Johnson Engineering’s current location), and then in 1991 they expanded to their current location (which is actually adjacent to their first location!). First Bank has always been very appreciative of their warm welcome to the LaBelle Community, and they continue to show their appreciation by being supportive in so many local activities and causes. Their employees live “local," and they enjoy being connected to LaBelle’s churches, schools, and non-profit events.

First Bank Centennial events will be held at each of their office locations. After the first of the year they will share all these details with the Chamber membership, and the Community, so that we can all celebrate together this amazing milestone.

The LaBelle Chamber congratulates First Bank on its 100th Anniversary and its designation as the LaBelle Chamber’s 2021 Business of the Year!