Associated Bank recently acknowledged the efforts of its top 20 volunteers, with a $1,000 grant to the non-profit organization of their choice. 

Over the past four months, these Associated colleagues combined to provide more than 3,000 hours of service to non-profit organizations across Associated's three-state footprint. This select group of colleagues were recognized for accumulating the most volunteer hours among their peers. 

Harlan McLain and Daniel Radtke from the La Crosse Downtown branch were among the 20 volunteers. 

McLain, a portfolio manager with Associated, has volunteered with the Lady Raiders Basketball Club for the past three years. This year he coached a 7th grade team which involved planning practices, teaching basketball skills to players, communicating with parents, and coaching in games. The team played 28 games during the season which ran from October through December as part of the Great Northwest Basketball League. 

Radtke, a financial consultant with Associated, volunteers with Horse Sense for Special Riders, a therapeutic riding program for the disabled. He has been involved as a board member for three years and serves on several committees. Radtke also volunteers with the La Crosse Community Theatre as an actor and various tasks including scene building and voice work for show introductions and radio / TV spots. He additionally serves as the Fund Raising Committee Chair for the new La Crosse Performing Arts Center. 

Other colleagues from throughout Associated have volunteered with several organizations including: Ronald McDonald House and Hamilton Educational Foundation, the Special Olympics, Mit Liebe German Shepherd Dog Rescue, Junior Achievement and Habitat for Humanity. 

"Each of our top 20 volunteers have demonstrated incredible passion and dedication for charitable causes through countless hours of service that benefit individuals throughout our communities," said Andrew Ruehl, Vice President, Corporate Social Responsibility Manager. "We are proud to honor each of these colleagues for their tremendous work and thank them for their efforts that ultimately help strengthen our communities. Their enthusiasm for community service is truly an inspiration to all of our colleagues here at Associated." 

Associated is committed to giving back to its communities. Hundreds of Associated colleagues live that commitment in their communities throughout the year as volunteers - serving as donors, organizers, leaders, inspirers, and doers.