Community Banks vs. Big Banks

A child puts coins in the piggy bank
October 9 2025

When choosing a bank, it is an easy decision to go with a bigger name, but bigger isn’t always better. Community banking, like ours, offer something larger institutions can’t: a relationship-based approach rooted in your community.

Personal Touch:

At Bruning Bank, you are not a number in our system, you’re a neighbor, a business owner, a parent, a student. We take the time to get know your story and goals. While larger banks rely heavily on automation and centralization, we offer a personal touch that can’t be matched. 

Local Decisions:

Our decisions for loans or financial advice are made locally, by people who live and work in the same community. We understand the local needs and challenges, which means we can make smarter, faster decisions with more flexibility. 

Community Commitment: 

We don’t just serve the community; we are a part of it. From supporting local events, shopping at local businesses, or being part of a local committee, we are reinvesting in places that we live and work. When you bank with Bruning Bank, your money stays local and refuels the growth in our communities. 

Our Employees:

We invest in our employees’ growth, well-being, and long-term growth at work and in their lives outside of work. At our bank, the feeling of family carries over into the customer interaction we provide.

Technology:

We offer banking tools, such as; mobile app, online bill pay, remote deposits- all backed by people you can actually talk to. You get the convenience of online banking with the confidence of local support.

Bruning Bank is here to assist you build, grow and thrive, right within your local communities. 

-McKenna Onnen, Relationship Banker (NMLS #1962601)

“We may never understand His wisdom, but we simply have to trust His will.”

Sonny Manley
President
Hebron

“Be kind because everybody is dealing with something you know nothing about.”

Jim Scott
President
Broken Bow

“Part of attaining success is surrounding yourself with people that share the same drive, determination and direction that you want to achieve.  I feel the people we hire at Bruning Bank represent those assets and they strive to help our customers build, grow and thrive in business as well as personal endeavors.” 

Todd Clabaugh
President
Kearney

"You’ve heard this before, '50% of success in your life comes from just showing up, more precisely showing up on time and being there when you are supposed to be.' That does not apply only to financial success it applies to everything. Your persistence in being there and being present and engaged in your family, your church and your work/career, you don’t have to talk a good game to be successful, you need to do. If you show-up, you're half way there.  And when you show-up, help will be available to get you the rest of the way.  Thanks to all of you that show-up!" 

Jerry Catlett
President & COO
Bruning

“At Bruning Bank, we are about building relationships. If you walk through our doors, we want you to feel like family. Whether it is your first time in, or you are a long-established customer, we want your experience to be positive, insightful, and lasting. The people we employ are vital in this role and do an amazing job carrying out the values and mission established by the bank. I truly feel this is what sets Bruning Bank apart from other institutions.“

Luke Thorell
President
Holdrege