WESTON, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Florida Community Bank (FCB) is committed to investing in local youth to build stronger communities, and as a result, received recognition from the American Bankers Association (ABA) Foundation’s 2017 Community Commitment Awards for FCB’s “Year of the Child” initiative.

Created as a core pillar to FBC’s philanthropic vision, “Year of the Child” was first declared in 2015 to support transitioning youth from ages 13 to 17 and to assist children in foster care in order to enhance their everyday lives and future opportunities.

The ABA Foundation Community Commitment Awards recognizes and promotes the many valuable ways banks of all sizes and charters contribute to economic growth, community development and overall well-being. FCB submitted an application for the ABA Foundation’s recognition.

“Banking institutions reflect the health and vitality of the communities they serve, and FCB places great emphasis on enhancing the communities where our customers and bankers live and work. Over 24,500 children live in foster homes in Florida,” said Kent S. Ellert, President and Chief Executive Officer, Florida Community Bank. “We are proud of the ABA’s recognition of our 'Year of the Child' endeavor, and we remain dedicated to supporting local youth through donations and volunteer efforts to enhance the lives of children in the state’s care.”

Since its formation in 2010, Florida Community Bank has supported a wide range of charitable organizations through monetary contributions and volunteer efforts. In addition to fundraising through corporate events and a designated “Blue Jean Day,” first launched on Fridays in April 2015 to support Child Abuse Awareness Month, FCB associates participate in ongoing mentorship and volunteerism. They also hold an “FCB Blue Day” every April to bring awareness to Child Abuse Prevention Month.

To learn more about the “Year of the Child” initiative and all of FCB’s philanthropic initiatives, please visit https://www.floridacommunitybank.net/philanthropy.

About Florida Community Bank

Florida Community Bank, N.A., (NYSE: FCB) is the largest community banking company and the second largest Florida-based independent bank, and among the most highly capitalized banks in the state. Awarded a five-star rating from Bauer Financial™, FCB assets are more than $10 billion, with capital ratios that exceed regulatory standards. Since its founding in 2010, FCB has been steadfast in its commitment to delivering personalized service, innovation, and products and services equal to those offered by the national banks. Similarly, FCB recognizes the importance of community, fostering a corporate culture that promotes employee volunteerism at all levels, while supporting community-based programs and partnerships that help promote greater financial independence and improved quality of life for families. FCB serves individuals, businesses and communities across the state with 46 full-service banking centers from east to west, and from Daytona Beach to Miami-Dade. For more information, visit FloridaCommunityBank.com. Equal Housing Lender, Member FDIC.

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