Our goal at Peoples Bank is to provide access to personal and business banking services and help the people in our community through quality services and outstanding customer service.
Peoples Bank of East Tennessee recently had the privilege of supporting Frontline Gardens by helping build the organization’s 142nd therapeutic garden for local veteran and police officer Matt Ross, volunteering alongside Volunteer Federal Bank and community volunteers.
The project brought together local businesses, nonprofits, and volunteers with a shared purpose: creating a place of healing, hope, and renewal for someone who has spent a lifetime serving others. It was a meaningful reminder of what can happen when a community comes together in service to others.
The project was organized through Frontline Gardens, a Monroe County nonprofit dedicated to serving veterans and first responders through horticultural therapy. Founded in 2020 by 32-year U.S. Army veteran Michael Trost and his wife, Stephanie, the organization was inspired by Michael’s own journey of healing after combat injuries sustained in Afghanistan. Today, Frontline Gardens continues that mission by helping veterans and first responders cultivate physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness through horticultural therapy and the installation of raised gardens that become lasting places of healing, purpose, and renewal. Matt Ross’s garden marked the organization’s 142nd installation.
Lumber for the project was generously donated by Anderson Lumber of Maryville, while volunteers from both community banks and other members of the community donated their time, talents, and teamwork to bring the garden to life.
At Peoples Bank of East Tennessee, we believe the strongest communities are built when people choose to serve one another. We are grateful for opportunities to support organizations like Frontline Gardens and to work alongside Volunteer Federal Bank and community volunteers who share a heart for serving others. Together, we were honored to help create a place of healing, hope, and renewal that will continue to serve Matt Ross for years to come.
Reflecting on the day, Matt Ross shared a message that captured the heart of the project:
“I am overwhelmed with thanks and emotions. You all are working so hard for someone you don’t even know, and I am eternally grateful to each one of you. I wish I could be there to help and say thank you in person. You all will forever hold a place in my heart.”
Our goal at Peoples Bank is to provide access to personal and business banking services and help the people in our community through quality services and outstanding customer service.
Proudly Serving East Tennessee
NMLS ID# 450164
(423) 442-7262
