TruNorth Bank Commits $70,000 to LEAP for Education’s New Era Fund
TruNorth Bank announced a four-year commitment of $70,000 to LEAP for Education in support of the organization’s New Era Fund, reinforcing the bank’s ongoing commitment to unlocking potential and expanding educational opportunities for students throughout the region.
The contribution will help LEAP for Education continue its mission of empowering young people to achieve social and economic mobility through education, career readiness, and personal development programs. The New Era Fund supports innovative initiatives designed to meet the evolving needs of students and families while ensuring long-term sustainability for the organization.
“At TruNorth Bank, we believe that education creates opportunity and strengthens communities,” said Michael R. Wheeler, president and CEO of TruNorth Bank. “Our commitment to LEAP’s New Era Fund reflects our dedication to unlocking potential in the communities we serve. By investing in students today, we are helping to build a stronger future for generations to come.”
LEAP for Education serves 600 students annually through academic support, college and career planning, mentoring, and workforce development programs. The organization’s work helps students overcome barriers and pursue pathways to long-term success.
“TruNorth has been more than a funder to LEAP — they have been a true partner for two decades,” said Kayla Dorst, executive director of LEAP for Education. “This generous $70,000 gift honors the vision our founder set in motion: that young people deserve not only strong educational opportunities, but also the relationships, resources, and real-world experiences that help them build a path to economic mobility. As LEAP enters its next era, this investment will help us deepen our impact with students, schools, employers, and community partners so that more youth can imagine and pursue a well-supported future full of possibility.”
The commitment aligns with TruNorth Bank’s broader community engagement efforts, including its Giving Tree program. Through the Giving Tree initiative, the bank supports nonprofit organizations and community projects that strengthen neighborhoods, enhance quality of life, and create opportunities for individuals and families. Together with employee volunteerism and charitable giving, the program reflects TruNorth Bank’s mission of making meaningful investments in the communities it serves.
By partnering with organizations like LEAP for Education, TruNorth Bank continues to demonstrate its commitment to helping individuals realize their full potential and creating lasting, positive change throughout the region.
ncluding its Giving Tree program. Through the Giving Tree initiative, the bank supports nonprofit organizations and community projects that strengthen neighborhoods, enhance quality of life, and create opportunities for individuals and families. Together with employee volunteerism and charitable giving, the program reflects TruNorth Bank’s mission of making meaningful investments in the communities it serves.

In the Photo:
Kevin M. Tierney, executive chairman, TruNorth Bank
Kayla Dorst, executive director, LEAP for Education
Amanda Thompson, director of advancement, LEAP for Education
Michael R. Wheeler, president and CEO, TruNorth Bank
