The Season of Giving

Graphic of a hand underneath, palm up, two hearts- one is bigger than the other.
December 17 2025

My favorite time of the year, “The Season of Giving.” This is not a season that should ot be defined by what we spend, but by how we share. Beyond wrapped gifts and monetary donations, we need to embrace the true spirit of the season. How do I do that you ask? By the giving of yourself through time, compassion, and simple acts of kindness in your community. 

A few simple acts of kindness might be: 

  • shoveling our neighbor’s snowy driveway

  • donating to a coat or mitten drive

  • dropping off donations to the local food pantry

  • volunteering your time at a community center, nursing home or assisted living facility

  • sending a card 

  • giving a listening ear 

  • checking in on a neighbor with a fresh batch of cookies and a smile

  • offering to watch the kids or run an errand for busy parents

Giving is not always about money, sometimes it’s just showing up.  Small gestures that bring relief or a smile to someone’s day. 

One way we give at Bruning Bank is by our “Pay It Forward” program. Each employee is allowed to donate $250 to a charity or family that is near and dear to their heart. 

This season let your generosity be measured by your heart. Whether an hour volunteered, a kind word shared, or a helping hand extended, every act of giving makes each community a little warmer, and you know ... it can get cold this time of year. May you all be blessed with good health and safe travel this Holiday Season!  

-Sonny Manley, President-Hebron-  

“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