WASHINGTON — More than cherry blossoms are blooming in Washington as members of the Independent Community Bankers of America are gearing up for Community Banking Month in April.

"Our community banks are passionately committed to serving their customers and their communities," ICBA Chairman James P. Ghiglieri Jr., president of Alpha Community Bank, Toluca, Ill., said. "They spend countless amounts of time and resources throughout the year making their communities better places to live while offering quality financial products and services to their customers. Community Banking Month is our time to celebrate that dedication."

Thousands of community banks participate in this annual celebration of community banking by hosting special events with local charities, offering programs to boost financial literacy, decorating their branches, serving their customers refreshments or offering free car washes at the drive-through.