WILLOW PARK, TX — The Independent Bankers Association of Texas (IBAT)—the largest state community banking association in the nation—recently honored First Bank Texas in Willow Park with two Best of Community Banking (BOCB) Awards. It received a Gold Eagle Award for its “Mobile Branch” marketing entry and a Silver Eagle Award for its “Education Foundation Support” community service entry.
Launched in 2025, the First Bank Texas mobile branch expands access to full-service banking across North and West Texas, reaching schools, festivals, underbanked areas, and communities during emergencies. It also supports financial education by engaging students and families at local events.
In addition, First Bank Texas partners with education foundations across its footprint to provide critical resources for public schools. From classroom supplies to innovative teaching grants, the bank contributes funding, volunteers, and leadership to ensure students have the tools they need to succeed.
2025 marks the 34th year that IBAT has celebrated the outstanding accomplishments of Texas community banks with the BOCB Awards. Community banks, such as First Bank Texas, play a critical role in their local communities. The Best of Community Banking competition is designed to honor local banks for their commitment to helping their customers, neighbors, employees, and community. BOCB Awards recognize community banks throughout the state for their innovation, creativity, and success in fulfilling a specific community or internal need.
All BOCB gold, silver, and bronze submissions can be viewed at www.ibat.org. For more information about First Bank Texas’ submission, contact SVP, Director of Marketing, Jacqline Gaber, at (817) 550-8962.
About First Bank Texas
First Bank Texas is a locally owned, full-service community bank with 15 locations from the DFW Metroplex to West Texas. With a charter dating back to 1880, the bank has built a legacy of service through its commitment to strong relationships, modern tools, and meaningful community investment. Whether helping customers secure their first mortgage or open a college savings plan for their grandchildren, First Bank Texas believes in delivering financial solutions that serve real people — and meeting them wherever life takes them. Visit go2fbt.com for more information.
About the Independent Bankers Association of Texas
Formed in 1974, the Independent Bankers Association of Texas (IBAT) represents Texas community banks. The Austin-based group is the largest state community banking organization in the nation with membership comprised of almost 5,000 banks and branches in more than 700 Texas communities. Providing safe and responsible financial services to all Texans, IBAT member bank assets range in size from $28 million to $51 billion with combined assets statewide of $296 billion. IBAT member banks are committed to supporting and investing in their local communities.
