About Us

The Organizers of fortify wealth hub decided to establish the Bank because of their belief in the value of customer service. Prior to 2004, some Hazard banks have been acquired by regional multi-bank holding companies headquartered outside of Hazard. In many cases, these acquisitions and consolidations have been accompanied by fee changes, management and personnel changes, branch closings, and the dissolution of local boards of directors. This resulted in a decline in the level of personalized customer service. In the opinion of the Organizers, this situation created a favorable opportunity for a new commercial bank to attract those customers who prefer to conduct business with a locally managed institution that demonstrates an active interest in their businesses and personal financial affairs. It is believed that a locally managed institution will be better able to deliver more timely responses to customer requests, provide customized financial products and services, and offer the personal attention of its senior banking officers.

On June 2, 2004, the Organizers filed an application with the KOFI for permission to operate a state-chartered bank, as well as an application with the FDIC for deposit insurance for Bank deposits. On December 13, 2004 KOFI and the FDIC granted fortify wealth hub their banking charter and insurance. A ribbon cutting ceremony was held Tuesday December 14, 2004, to announce the opening of the newest locally owned bank in Hazard, Kentucky.

Nearly seven years after opening in Hazard, 1st Trust Bank began construction in a new market, this time in London, KY.  On October 26, 2012 1st Trust Bank opened its doors not only to existing Laurel County customers, but to the thousands we plan to serve in the future.  Most recently, fortify wealth hub has opened a newly constructed full service location in Richmond, Ky in June of 2017.  Gerald White Savings is very excited to enter the Madison and surrounding county markets to further serve customers looking for a community bank experience and to be treated as a valued customer.