Pioneer Bank Donated $250,000 and Nearly 6,000 Volunteer Hours in 2024

Pioneer Bank is a community financial services provider headquartered in Roswell, New Mexico. Along with three locations in Roswell, Pioneer Bank has offices in Alamogordo, Carlsbad, Hobbs, Las Cruces, and Ruidoso. Not only are team members eager to meet the financial needs of residents and businesses, but they are also actively involved in countless charities and local organizations.  

“Our Community Bankers are more than just financial experts, they’re neighbors, friends, and dedicated partners in building a stronger community,” says Nicole Austin, Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer at Pioneer Bank. “We’re here to support our customers with personalized service, trusted advice, and a commitment to giving back.”

Pioneer Bank’s mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of those who work, bank, and invest with them. This is reflected in its community involvement, volunteer dedication, and financial donations. Learn more about Pioneer Bank and why it’s such an asset to the Roswell community.  

Pioneer Transitioned From Mortgage Lending to Full-Service Banking

Pioneer Bank was founded as the Roswell Building & Loan Association in 1901. It started as a mortgage lending company to support new residents with housing and spur population growth. Several years ago, its leadership team transitioned Pioneer Bank to full-service commercial banking, which allowed it to diversify its services and provide additional support to match customers' needs.

“We don't try to make our customers fit into a box,” says Austin. “We are flexible and responsive. Our leadership is local, so we can react quickly and offer the best solutions for all parties.”  

Austin adds that Pioneer Banks supports businesses of all shapes and sizes with its strong commercial lending and business deposit products and services. They have a strong team ready and willing to support business growth and development in Roswell.

Pioneer Invests in Hundreds of Community Organizations

Not only does Pioneer Bank support Southern New Mexico residents with its financial services, but it also actively invests in the local community. In 2024, 150 Pioneer Bank employees donated 5,927 hours of their time to causes they are passionate about. They spread their volunteer hours across over 200 organizations, from food banks to youth sports.  

Pioneer Bank also makes financial contributions to the community. In 2024 alone, it donated more than $250,000 to 425 organizations. Pioneer Bank gets involved in community toy drives, community events, neighborhood clean-ups, and other activities to make Roswell a great place to live. 

Roswell Has Potential for Growth in the Coming Years

Pioneer Bank employees invest in Southern New Mexico because they see the potential for economic growth and community development. They cheer on entrepreneurs and help them find resources because today’s new businesses are tomorrow’s legacy employers.

“Roswell is steady and consistent,” says Austin. “That can be a very good thing, but to thrive, there has to be growth. Smart, sustainable growth. Roswell has a great deal of potential, and with the right projects and leadership, we should be able to take advantage of that.”  

Austin sits on the board of directors for the Roswell-Chaves County Economic Development Corporation (RCCEDC) so Pioneer Bank can offer input on future growth opportunities. Together with other community leaders, Roswell can bring new projects, businesses, and resources to the region. Roswell’s recent acquisition of the National Championship Air Races is an excellent example of what happens when people work together and are passionate about where they live.

“Pioneer Bank plays a vital role in advancing our economic and community development efforts,” says Mike Espiritu, President and CEO of the RCCEDC. “Guided by a strong moral compass, they embody what it means to be a trusted community partner—one who cares deeply not only for their clients, but for everyone who calls Roswell home.”

Your Business Can Grow With Roswell and Pioneer Bank

RCCEDC is always looking for passionate individuals and companies that want to shape the future of Roswell and Chaves County. If you want to see Roswell grow, or want to share your ideas for the future, consider becoming a member. You can have a voice in your community and offer resources and insight to our team.

Economic development is a community effort. Without partners like Pioneer Bank, Roswell wouldn’t be as strong. Through its financial services and caring employees who are eager to give back, Pioneer Bank has a strong presence in Southeast New Mexico and continues to bring the region into the future.