Harvest season is one of the busiest and most meaningful times of year in rural Minnesota. From sunrise to sunset, farmers are in the fields, running combines, moving grain, and managing the many details that come with bringing in a year’s worth of work. It’s long days, longer nights, and a whole lot of teamwork.
Our Star Bank Barrett team wanted to show local farmers just how much they’re appreciated. So, as the fields turned golden and the harvesters rolled, our staff loaded up lunches and hit the roads to deliver meals directly to the farmers hard at work. It’s a tradition our team looks forward to every year. One that reminds us of the heart of community banking...showing up, lending a hand, and connecting personally with the people we serve.
“This is one of those things that just feels right,” said Jeff Mahoney, VP and Branch Manager of Star Bank Barrett. “Our farmers work incredibly hard and are a vital part of this community. Taking lunch out to the fields is just one small way we can show our gratitude and support. It’s about being present, not just as a bank, but as neighbors and friends.”
The farmers’ reactions spoke volumes. Smiles, handshakes, and genuine thanks were shared between rows of corn, soybeans. or sugar beets. For many, the quick visit was a welcome break from the nonstop pace of harvest. A moment to connect, refuel, and feel appreciated.
One of those farmers, Ferdinand Rabie of Aanerud Family Farms, was so moved by the experience that he took it upon himself to create a testimonial video, completely unprompted. Originally from South Africa, Ferdinand shared how different his experience has been banking in the U.S., and how Star Bank stands out for its personal approach and community connection. His message highlighted something we take great pride in: being the kind of bank that shows up, listens, and genuinely cares about our customers.
For our team, hearing those words was incredibly meaningful. It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day business of banking, but moments like this remind us that what we’re really in the business of is people. Our success is measured in relationships, trust, and the positive impact we can make in the communities we serve.
As the Barrett team wrapped up their lunch deliveries, the spirit of gratitude was mutual. The farmers appreciated the gesture, and our team came back feeling inspired and proud to be part of something bigger, a community that looks out for one another.
At Star Bank, we believe community banking isn’t just about convenience, it’s about connection. Whether we’re helping finance a farm, supporting a local business, or simply delivering a lunch to a hardworking farmer, we’re here to make a difference.
To all the farmers across Minnesota: thank you. Your dedication feeds our communities and fuels our state’s economy. We’re proud to be your community bank, and even prouder to call you our friends.