Community

What’s the Good Word?


 

Proudly Investing in Our Future

Our commitment to community starts with supporting the next generation. Each year, we award scholarships to local students who show dedication to their education and a passion for making a difference. These scholarships reflect our belief that strong communities grow from opportunity and encouragement. Our recipients inspire us with their hard work, leadership, and service—and we’re proud to help them take the next step toward their goals.

Stay Tuned!
We’ll be announcing this year’s scholarship winners as they receive their awards. Follow us here and on social media to help us celebrate these outstanding students.

 

 


 

Proud to Maintain an “Outstanding” Community Reinvestment Act Rating

This rating recognition reflects our long-standing commitment to building stronger communities through deposits, education, and equitable access to lending. We’re honored to be among the top 8% of Wisconsin banks to receive an Outstanding CRA rating in the past five years — a distinction we’ve proudly upheld since 2008.

Our dedication goes beyond financial services, from responsible lending practices to meaningful outreach, we strive to make a real difference in the communities we serve. Our staff has volunteered over 50 hours teaching financial literacy to elementary and high school students, as well as older adults. Read more about our rating from the Ladysmith News article below. 


 

Building Future Connections at Flambeau School

May 7, 2025

We were thrilled to take part in Flambeau School’s Growing Connections event, where students had the chance to explore career opportunities beyond the classroom. We provided valuable materials to help students consider a future in banking, and encouraged them to ask any banking-related question for a chance to win gift card prizes! (And yes, we kindly reminded them—no, we’re not teaching them how to rob a bank... that’s not exactly in our job description!). It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with the next generation and show them all the exciting possibilities a career in banking can offer. We look forward to being a part of many more events like this in the future!

Pictured (left to right): Taylor Engholm & Skye Neidermann


 

WBA Capitol Day 2025: Advocating for Stronger Communities

This year, over 320 bankers from more than 70 banks across Wisconsin gathered in Madison for the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) Capitol Day — including our own Sara Taylor from Ladysmith Federal.

This annual event brings banking professionals together to meet with state lawmakers and advocate for public policies that support economic growth and community well-being.

Capitol Day provides an important opportunity for bankers to share firsthand how legislation impacts their ability to serve customers and support local development. By highlighting the crucial role banks play in building strong, vibrant communities, these conversations help shape more effective and equitable policies.

Sara met with Representative Rob Summerfield and Senator Jesse James to discuss key issues facing our industry and our customers — including protecting seniors from financial fraud, expanding access to affordable housing, and ensuring fair regulatory treatment across all financial institutions.

We’re proud to be part of a network that not only supports Wisconsin’s economy but actively works to protect and strengthen it through advocacy and leadership!


 

Ladysmith Federal Team Claims 2nd Place at the Flambeau School ScrabbleBee

April 30, 2025

Winner, Winner, Chicken Dinner!

The Ladysmith Federal team is celebrating a second-place victory at the 2025 Flambeau School ScrabbleBee—and yes, we’re bringing home a delicious 8-piece chicken dinner, graciously donated by Edming Oil.

The competition was fierce, and we had a blast working together to beat the clock. We even had a team mate who had never played Scrabble before, but that didn’t stop us from racking up points and showing our Scrabble skills. In fact, we almost managed to beat Skabroud’s losing first-place by only a whopping 90 points—proof that with a little teamwork, anything is possible!

This event was a fantastic opportunity not just for some friendly competition, but also to support our local school district and the community.

Here's to more "Winner, Winner, Chicken Dinner" moments in the future!

Pictured (left to right): Emma, Kat, Stephanie, & Karissa


 

Ladysmith Federal Attends WBA Women in Banking Conference

April 23, 2025

Ladysmith Federal’s officers had the opportunity to attend the WBA Women in Banking Conference, a powerful event dedicated to empowering and uplifting women in the financial industry.

Throughout the day, we heard from inspiring keynote speakers and presenters—women who have carved out success in business through resilience, leadership, and a strong sense of purpose. Their stories reminded us of the importance of confidence, community, and lifting one another up in both our professional and personal lives.

The conference was more than just a learning experience—it was a celebration of what women can achieve when we support each other. As WBA reminds us, “When women support women, incredible things happen.”

We left the event energized, encouraged, and proud to be part of an organization that values growth, leadership, and community impact.

Thank you to the Wisconsin Bankers Association for hosting such a meaningful and motivating day!

Pictured (left to right): Sara, Lindsey, Kat, & Taylor


 

Celebrating Power of Community Week!

April 21–26, 2025

Ladysmith Federal is proud to participate in the eighth annual Wisconsin Bankers Association's Power of Community Week—a campaign dedicated to celebrating the positive impact that banks and their communities have on each other. During this week, we'll be joining WBA member banks to show our continued commitment to the communities we serve.

At Ladysmith Federal, we’re excited to offer opportunities for our community to get involved:

Ladysmith Federal staff will be reading to local elementary school students during National Teach Children to Save Day. We're committed to empowering the next generation with financial literacy and instilling the importance of saving money.

We invite you to join us in making a meaningful difference in our community during this special week and throughout the month. Together, we can show the true Power of Community!

 


Sharing the Power of Community: Financial Literacy Starts Early

As part of the WBA Power of Community Week, Ladysmith Federal proudly continued its commitment to financial education by connecting with our youngest community members.

Syke Neidermann, a dedicated member of our Financial Literacy Committee, spent time at Flambeau Elementary School reading to students and helping spark early conversations about money, saving, and smart financial choices. Members of our Financial Literacy Committee also visited Bruce, Ladysmith, and Our Lady of Sorrows area schools during the week. Through engaging stories and friendly discussion, students got a fun and age-appropriate introduction to important financial concepts.

At Ladysmith Federal, we believe that financial literacy starts early—and moments like these help lay the foundation for a brighter financial future. We're proud to be part of a community that values education, connection, and investing in the next generation.

Thank you to Flambeau Elementary for welcoming us, and to the Wisconsin Bankers Association for supporting initiatives that bring community and education together!


 

Hopping into Community Fun at the Bruce Easter Egg Hunt

Ladysmith Federal was proud to be a sponsor and vendor at this year’s Bruce Community Easter Egg Hunt! It was a joy to be part of such a well-loved event that brings families together for springtime fun and celebration.

Our team had a wonderful time engaging with local families and watching the excitement on the kids’ faces as they enjoyed the bounce houses, played games for prizes, and, of course, hunted for Easter eggs. The energy was contagious, and we were thrilled to share in the smiles, laughter, and community spirit.

Events like this are a great reminder of why we love what we do. At Ladysmith Federal, we’re more than just your local bank—we’re your neighbors, friends, and people you know.

Thank you to everyone who stopped by our booth, and a big thanks to the organizers for making the event such a success!

Pictured (left to right): Lindsey & Sara


 

Bank Smarter. Bank Safer.

Your peace of mind is our priority. With our Mobile and Online Banking, you get the perfect blend of security and convenience—right at your fingertips.

Why You Can Trust Us:

Stay in Control with Smart Security Tools:

Together, these tools help you monitor, prevent, and protect against financial fraud—so you can bank confidently, 24/7.

Banking that's secure. Features that empower. Protection you can trust.


 

Rusk County Spring Expo

The Ladysmith Federal team had a fantastic time connecting with the community at the Rusk County Spring Expo! Our booth was a hub of activity as we handed out gold chocolate coins and fun piggy banks to the kids—all part of our mission to promote financial literacy from an early age.

It was heartwarming to see so many families stop by to say hello, ask questions about our services, and share in the excitement of the event. Teaching kids the value of saving, even in small ways, can spark lifelong financial habits—and what better way to start than with a piggy bank and a little gold?

Our staff truly enjoyed the day, filled with laughter, learning, and great conversations. Thank you to everyone who came out and made the day so memorable. We're proud to be part of such a vibrant and engaged community, and we look forward to more opportunities to connect and educate throughout the year.

Pictured (left to right): Taylor & Kat


 

Adult Education: Protecting Your Finances

We believe that financial literacy is the cornerstone of financial security—especially in today’s digital age. That’s why we’re proud to continue our commitment to educating adults in our community through our safeguarding your finances and navigating online banking series. 

This initiative is designed to give individuals the knowledge and tools they need to bank confidently and securely from their computers and smartphones. With online scams and fraud attempts on the rise, especially targeting older adults and those new to digital banking, staying informed is more important than ever.

Financial safety starts with knowledge—and we’re here to help every step of the way.

Interested in joining our next session? Watch our website and visit our Facebook for upcoming dates and resources.


 


 

New Self-Service Online Banking Resource Center Now Available!

We’re excited to introduce a new way to support your banking needs—right inside our lobby!

Ladysmith Federal now offers a Self-Service Online Banking Resource Center, complete with a dedicated PC station and friendly staff ready to assist you. Whether you’re new to online banking or just need a little extra help navigating our digital tools, we’re here to make the process easy and stress-free.

At the Resource Center, you can:

And the best part? Our team is right there to guide you through every step.

Stop in today to get started or ask questions—no appointment needed. At Ladysmith Federal, we’re committed to making banking more accessible, convenient, and personal.


 

 



Happy New Year!

At the beginning of last quarter in 2024, we started an employee incentive program which raises money for local organizations. We are proud to announce that Flambeau School's Cancer Relief Benefit planning committee is the first organization we picked to donate a $500 Visa gift card for this year's event. Helping to CRUSH Cancer! 

We are so grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the school's event which is in it's 18th year, raising just short of $200,000 over the last 17 years.

Watch for more information from the Flambeau School on how you can win this Visa gift card!


 


 

A special visit from Flambeau!

December 18, 2024

The Flambeau School's 2nd Grade class had their annual field trip to visit Ladysmith Federal! Throughout the school year, 2nd graders collect coins that they exchange at the bank to buy Christmas presents for our local nursing home residence. During their visit, students learned about the coin counting machine, how the bank keeps money secure, enjoyed a sweet treat,  & were read a story about saving money. We're already looking forward to next year!  

If you are a school, business, or organization interested in learning more about our Financial Literacy program, scheduling a bank tour, or field trip please reach out to us at contact@ladysmithfederal.com or give us a call (715) 532-3389. 

Pictured: Carol Swanson with a group of 2nd Graders counting up their coins.

Pictured: Skye Neidermann reading a story about saving money while students enjoy a treat!

Pictured: Kat Detloff showing the 2nd Grade what $5,000 in $1 dollar bills looks like.


 


 


 


 

Celebrating Excellence in Financial Education 2024

Congratulations to Kat Detloff & Carol Swanson!

Kat received the Excellence in Financial Education Certificate of Excellence and Carol received the Excellence in Financial Education Certificate of Recognition awarded by the Wisconsin Bankers Foundation, the non-profit arm of the Wisconsin Banker's Association, on November 21, 2024.

Kat is our Financial Literacy Coordinator and has put in a lot of work in our local schools and businesses providing financial literacy for several years now. We're proud that we have been able to provide financial literacy for decades and are very grateful that we have the staff available that continue to do so in our community.

Thank you, Kat & Carol!

If you are a school, business, or organization interested in learning more about our Financial Literacy program and offerings, please reach out to contact@ladysmithfederal.com or give us a call (715) 532-3389. 


 

Ladysmith Federal's 90th Birthday Party

Thank you to everyone who came out to Worden Ave Exchange tonight to help us celebrate our 90th anniversary! It wouldn't be possible without the support of our amazing customers. A special 'Thank you' to our guest speakers. Cedar Lodge served up a delicious meal while Sage Leary provided some great entertainment. Tonight exceeded our expectations and we are so proud to be able to share this moment with you. Cheers to another 90 years!


 

 

Donation Drive Success

To everyone who helped make our Hygiene Drive a success, thank you! We were able to donate six large boxes of items to our local schools.


 

February 29, 2024


 

Celebrating 90 Years of service in Rusk County! 

2024 marks our 90th anniversary at Ladysmith Federal. We have been servicing Ladysmith and Rusk County since 1934 and today we remain Rusk County's only locally-owned financial institution. In 2023, we ranked #1 as Rusk County's top mortgage lender and hope to remain a leader in 2024. We continue to give back to our communities though volunteer and financial contributions. We awarded 8 scholarships to graduating seniors at all four area high schools and contributed to the Ladysmith and Flambeau athletic departments HUDL cam programs.

2024 promises to be another year of uncertainty,  both economically and politically. But you can be certain that Ladysmith Federal will be here and ready to help you with your financial needs and goals as we have for the past 90 years.

Look for more details over the upcoming weeks and months on how we will be celebrating this milestone.


 

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