On October 3, 2026, Richwood Bank brought together veterans, military families, first responders, community organizations, and local residents for its Celebrate the Heroes Among Us event in Richwood, Ohio. Supported in part through AMBA’s 2026 Matching Grant Program, the event provided an opportunity for the community to recognize and celebrate individuals whose service, sacrifice, and dedication continue to make a difference throughout the region.
The celebration grew from Richwood Bank’s America 250 + Veterans Tribute: A Community-Wide Celebration of Service and Unity initiative. Developed in recognition of America’s 250th anniversary, the initiative was designed not only to commemorate this historic milestone, but also to ensure that veterans and their contributions remained at the heart of the celebration.
That community-wide approach was reflected in the broad range of organizations that participated. Military and veteran organizations included VFW Post 870, American Legion Post 40, the Union County Veterans Service Office, Military Order of the Purple Heart representatives, Honor Flight Columbus, military recruiters, and other veteran-focused groups. Local law enforcement, fire, emergency management, and EMS organizations also participated, including the Richwood Police Department, Union County Sheriff, Ohio State Patrol, Northern Union County Fire and EMS, and other regional first responders.
AMBA’s Matching Grant helped Richwood Bank support several important components of the event, including veteran recognition and tribute elements, event logistics designed to provide a safe and accessible experience, and community-facing activities that encouraged participation and connection. The funding helped turn Richwood Bank’s vision into a welcoming celebration where veterans, military families, first responders, and residents could come together to recognize the importance of service.
The event delivered on that vision. Beautiful weather and a fantastic turnout contributed to a day filled with gratitude, celebration, and community pride. Veterans were joined by first responders, educators, healthcare professionals, and other local heroes whose service and dedication have strengthened the Richwood community.
Following the celebration, Tai Wills of Richwood Bank shared the bank’s appreciation for AMBA’s support, noting that the grant funding helped bring the event to life and provided an opportunity to honor the many heroes who make a difference in the community each day.
Richwood Bank President and CEO Chad Hoffman also highlighted the importance of the partnership ahead of the event. “We’re grateful to AFFN and AMBA for partnering with us to make this celebration possible and to help us honor the military members, veterans and first responders who make such a difference in our communities,” Hoffman said in an August 2026 announcement about the event published by Marion County Now.
The celebration demonstrated the broader impact community banks can have beyond providing financial services. By working alongside local organizations and investing in initiatives that recognize military service, public service, and community involvement, Richwood Bank helped create an opportunity for residents of all ages to come together around a common purpose.
Through its Matching Grant Program, AMBA was proud to support Richwood Bank’s efforts and help amplify the bank’s commitment to its local military and veteran community. The Celebrate the Heroes Among Us event demonstrated how community partnerships can recognize service, strengthen local connections, and ensure that veterans and other local heroes know their contributions are seen, valued, and remembered.