These customers each got a tank of gas on North Shore Bank.

As part of our Bank on Kindness initiative, MLK Drive branch manager Angela Byrd stopped at an Amoco station on July 3 to pay for some lucky people’s gas. “One customer was preparing to perform an act of kindness himself, by helping with lawn care service for an elderly neighbor before he prepared to travel to be with family,” Angela said. “He was extremely grateful for the fill-up.”

Thomas, with gift card.

And we recently gave customer Thomas a $100 Kroger gift card to donate to the New Berlin VFW, which he just joined after moving to Waukesha. “He was originally with the VFW in Greendale, but when he moved, New Berlin was closer,” area branch manager Carolyn Lancour said. “They welcomed him with a standing ovation into their post, and the ability to contribute something of such significance was very meaningful to him.” The VFW donates to a food pantry at Milwaukee’s Zablocki Center, which provides assistance for veterans in need.

Originally from Greendale, Thomas left when he enlisted in the U.S. Army and then landed in Oregon. He later worked as a “cold-case cowboy,” and his story was almost made into a movie. “Wilford Brimley was going to play his part, but the movie was unfortunately never finished,” Carolyn said.