Rhinebeck Bank's Commitment to High School Students Through Internships and Community Investment
Rhinebeck Bank has been an integral part of the economic growth along the Hudson River for 157 years. With headquarters in Dutchess County, the bank is committed to the future as a local, independent financial institution, helping people and businesses flourish in the communities it serves. This commitment extends to investing in the next generation through various programs, including high school student internships, scholarships, and tuition reimbursement.
Investing in the Future: High School Internships at Rhinebeck Bank
For many years, Rhinebeck Bank has actively recruited high school students for part-time jobs and internships, giving them the opportunity to learn about banking and finance. These internships provide invaluable real-world experience, exposing students to the inner workings of a financial institution and offering them a chance to develop essential skills.
The bank's dedication to fostering young talent is evident in its long-standing practice of hiring high school students. By providing these opportunities, Rhinebeck Bank not only supports students financially but also equips them with practical knowledge and a professional network that can benefit them throughout their careers.
Supporting Education: Scholarships and Tuition Reimbursement
Rhinebeck Bank's commitment to students doesn't end with internships. Once students graduate and attend college in the area, the bank supports them financially through tuition reimbursement and scholarships at their schools. This financial assistance helps ease the burden of higher education costs, allowing students to focus on their studies and pursue their academic goals.
This investment in education demonstrates Rhinebeck Bank's belief in the importance of developing a skilled and educated workforce. By supporting local students, the bank is contributing to the long-term economic prosperity of the region.
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A Mutually Beneficial Relationship
The relationship between Rhinebeck Bank and its student employees is mutually beneficial. The students bring their talent and passion to their jobs, while the bank benefits from their fresh perspectives and enthusiasm. The bank currently employs 16 current and former students, all of whom contribute to the company's success.
Moreover, the internships provide the bank with an opportunity to identify and cultivate future talent. By working with students early in their careers, Rhinebeck Bank can build a pipeline of qualified candidates for future positions.
The Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP)
Rhinebeck Bank's commitment to youth development aligns with programs such as the Dutchess County Department of Community and Family Services’ (DCFS) Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP). This annual program is available to eligible students aged 14 to 20 whose families qualify for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). The SYEP provides training, summer job placements, and mentorship to participants.
Students in the SYEP work at local organizations and businesses for an average of 20 hours per week throughout July and August, applying the skills they learn on the job. This exposure helps participants discover their interests and potential career paths.
Real-World Impact: A Student's Experience
One example of the program's impact is the story of Celaya-Luis, a student from Poughkeepsie City School District. Celaya-Luis, who previously helped design Dutchess BOCES’ 2021 holiday card, was tasked with designing the cover of Rhinebeck Bank’s annual report during her internship.
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Initially, the task was intimidating for Celaya-Luis, as she had never worked on a project like this before. She redid the design up to six times, collaborating with her colleagues and asking for their feedback. This experience helped her develop important skills, such as collaboration and attention to detail.
Her supervisor, Massie, noted that Celaya-Luis's work reinforced the bank's image as a true community bank. The experience also highlighted Celaya-Luis's ability to take responsibility and work independently.
Community Involvement and Charitable Support
Rhinebeck Bank invests deeply in the communities it serves and holds itself to the highest standard of making sound, consistent decisions for the community, its customers, and its employees. The bank prides itself on being personally involved in business communities and charitable organizations, providing charitable support for over 200 local, non-profit organizations annually.
The bank's employees are also personally committed to the communities, actively serving on local boards and volunteering. This commitment to community involvement demonstrates Rhinebeck Bank's dedication to making a positive impact beyond its financial services.
The Importance of Community Banks
Rhinebeck Bank's focus on community involvement and youth development sets it apart from larger, national banks. As a local, independent financial institution, Rhinebeck Bank is able to be more responsive to the needs of its customers and the community.
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Community banks play a vital role in supporting local economies and fostering economic growth. They provide essential financial services to individuals and small businesses, and they invest in the communities they serve.
A Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
The diversity found at Poughkeepsie High School (PHS) helped Celaya-Luis in her internship at Rhinebeck Bank. This highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace and the benefits of creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all employees.
Rhinebeck Bank's commitment to diversity and inclusion extends beyond its hiring practices. The bank also supports various community organizations that promote diversity and inclusion.
The Right Banking Products and the Right People
Rhinebeck Bank believes that it is with the right banking products and the right people that they are able to be responsive to the needs of their customers and that they continue to grow. This philosophy underscores the importance of having a skilled and dedicated workforce, as well as offering products and services that meet the needs of the community.
By investing in its employees and the community, Rhinebeck Bank is creating a sustainable business model that benefits all stakeholders.
Adult Undergraduate Programs and Tuition Discounts
Rhinebeck Bank's commitment to education extends to adult learners as well. The bank offers tuition discounts on eligible graduate and adult undergraduate degree programs. Adult undergraduate students are defined as students who began their Marist academic career at age 22 or older and who are applying through the Office of Adult Undergraduate Admission.
This support for adult learners demonstrates Rhinebeck Bank's belief in lifelong learning and its commitment to helping employees and community members achieve their educational goals.
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