MARION – Banterra Bank utilized their locations in six states to distribute glasses for the April 8 solar eclipse for a minimum donation of $2 each. More than $25,000 was raised to help illuminate hope for critically ill children, with donations going to non-profit organizations Granted and Make-A-Wish.

“At Banterra, we are always looking for opportunities to support our communities and to raise funds for important charities,” said Jeff May, President and CEO of Banterra Bank. “The eclipse was a historic event, especially for our Midwest states. We knew that Banterra could be a nice resource for providing our communities with proper eclipse glasses while also giving back to the charities. We are grateful to those who donated to help make this such a success.”

Following the eclipse event, Banterra asked their team members to recycle (or return unused) glasses to the marketing department, so they could be shipped to an organization in need. Banterra took the returned eclipse glasses to the City of Marion, Illinois so they could be mailed to Astronomers Without Borders for the viewing of other eclipse events throughout the world.

Banterra understands the significance in giving back to communities. In addition to volunteer hours and leadership on boards and committees, Banterra contributes the largest part of their marketing budget annually to charities and civic organizations. Additionally, unique from other banks, Banterra promotes charities throughout the year at all of their locations, each month either raising funds, awareness or both for charities who serve their communities. Visit Banterra.bank or your nearest branch to learn more about each month’s charity and how you can get involved.