We’re making a difference, one family at a time. First Merchants Bank is a proud partner of Habitat for Humanity chapters across our service area.

“First Merchants Bank believes in getting involved in communities and does it quite well,” said Dawn Michaels, Executive Director for Habit for Humanity of Northwest Indiana. “First Merchants was the only bank to identify ways to help Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Indiana with the homeowner’s mortgages we hold. The bank’s team builds, along with financial support, all these resources assist us in moving our vision and mission forward: A world where everyone deserves a decent place to live.”

In 2021, First Merchants donated more than $32,000 and participated in building eight habitat homes. To date in 2022, First Merchants has donated $23,500 and participated in building four habitat homes – but our work this year is far from over.

Robin Scott, Banking Center Manager of the new Northland Banking Center in the Northland area of Columbus, Ohio, is particularly excited about an upcoming build.

“It’s being constructed right in our neighborhood, so we had to be a part of it,” Robin shared. “We want the people here to prosper. And what better way to live the American dream than owning your own home? Knowing we’ve had some impact on the lives of our neighbors here and sending them into the next chapter is so amazing.”

Robin plans to lead a team of First Merchants volunteers to help raise the house in August.

Housing brings financial security, equity, and helps families and communities build generational wealth – in short, access to affordable housing helps communities prosper. These values are at the heart of who we are as a bank, and First Merchants is committed to expanding access to mortgages and housing, particularly to populations that are often denied access to this opportunity.

“We are both honored and privileged to partner with Habitat for Humanity across our footprint, joining together to provide first-time homeowners the opportunity to narrow the generational wealth gap,” said Lisa Pacula, a Corporate Social Responsibility Officer with First Merchants Bank.

Learn more about our dedication to communities. and our teammates in action.