ST. PAUL — During 2004, the Carl and Eloise Pohlad Family Foundation committed more than $9.5 million in grants to 115 organizations.

Up to 50 students, who might otherwise lack the opportunity, will work at independent community banks throughout Minnesota, according to Haddeland. The Pohlad Family Foundation will help fund the program.

“We’re excited to partner with the independent bankers on this important program,” said Marina Muñoz Lyon, vice president of the Carl and Eloise Pohlad Family Foundation.

“T.E.A.M. Future Bankers comes at a time when the need for summer youth programs is high, but the stress on public budgets has reduced support for such programs. Our program will create meaningful employment opportunities for 16- to 19‑year‑old students who will benefit most from this opportunity, and it fits perfectly with the Foundation’s mission to improve the lives of economically disadvantaged children and families,” she added.

Haddeland said students will earn $8 per hour for a minimum of 20 hours per week during the 10‑week program beginning in June. Local high schools will help in the selection process by identifying eligible candidates who will be interviewed and hired by their community bank.

“T.E.A.M. Future Bankers is not just a summer jobs program, but includes a strong education component as well,” said Haddeland. “We hope this summer experience will encourage students to make financial services a career goal in their own communities.

“Participating students will attend 10-12 hours of class to learn the principles of basic banking and customer service skills. While on the job, students will have a chance to work with and observe key decision‑makers and to interact with members of their communities. This could be a life‑changing experience for the students and springboard into a banking career,” he said.

On August 22, the student workers and representatives of the participating banks will be treated to attend a Twins game as a guest of the Pohlad family. The event will include a pre-game picnic and ceremony. Prior to the game, each student and bank representative will be given the chance to have a picture taken with a Twins player or coach, and one lucky member of the group will throw out the opening pitch.

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About the ICBM: The Independent Community Bankers of Minnesota was established in 1962 as an association of independent, community-focused banks providing active leadership for its members on programs, products, services, and the preservation of a competitive environment.

ICBM is dedicated to enhancing community banks for the benefit of consumers, small businesses, and family farms. For more information visit www.communitybanks.org.

About the Pohlad Family Foundation: The mission of the Carl and Eloise Pohlad Family Foundation is to improve the lives of economically disadvantaged families and children. The Foundation also participates in projects that maintain or improve the quality of life in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area. Since 1998, the Pohlad Family Foundation has committed more than $25 million in grants. For more information on grant programs and application procedures, visit www.pohladfamilygiving.org.