Serving Those Who Have Served Us

Veterans have given much to our country, and Regions Bank associates understand the importance of not just recognizing that sacrifice but finding meaningful ways to serve those who have selflessly served us.

The bank’s support for veterans and active duty military is demonstrated in several ways: from offering targeted financial guidance and education to creating employment opportunities through military-focused career programs. Regions was recognized as a 2025 Military Friendly^® Employer, marking the 5th year it has earned this distinction.

Regions’ commitment is further reflected by the role of a dedicated Service Members and Veterans Affairs Manager who maintains strong relationships within the military community.

Steve Beres, who has been in the position for 12 years, is part of the Community Engagement team and helps ensure open lines of communication between Regions, service members and veterans’ organizations – reinforcing the bank’s ongoing efforts to serve those who serve.

Beres joins us here to talk more about his role and the importance of Regions having a direct connection with veterans and active-duty military.

Steve, you have a personal connection to service members. Tell us a bit about your history and how you landed at Regions.

I served in the United States Army for 22 years, including several combat tours in the Middle East. Due to a traumatic injury, I suffered blindness and a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). After my recovery, I pursued higher education, earning two master’s degrees and a doctorate in Occupational Therapy. I went on to work in law enforcement and later with the Veterans Administration.

In 2013, I joined Regions as the Service Member and Veterans Affairs Manager, a role that’s been a great fit for my skillset, my experience and my passion for serving others. Everything at Regions that involves service members, veterans or their families falls under my area of responsibility.

Why is it important for Regions to engage in community outreach and what types of organizations are you involved with?

Many veterans face unique challenges after their service. At Regions, we believe we have a responsibility to support the people who’ve served our country – not just with financial tools, but through outreach that helps them thrive. Whether it’s through education, partnerships or community events, Regions is committed to making an impact.

We’re involved with several community organizations across the footprint that serve and support veterans and active-duty military. One example is the Home Builder’s Institute, a nonprofit that offers no-cost training in the construction field. Regions has supported their military programs, which include training on military installations for transitioning military members. Their graduates have an impressive 86 percent employment rate upon completion.

Another key partner is Lakeshore Foundation, which provides rehabilitation and physical training for wounded military members and disabled veterans. I personally participated in one of their programs, Operation Night Vision, which was specifically designed for Wounded Warriors with vision loss and blindness. It was a powerful and inspiring experience.

I’ve also had the privilege of working with Army Junior ROTC cadets at two high schools in Orange County, Florida. These programs help students build leadership, citizenship, wellness, military history knowledge and core life skills. And I’ve taken part in Honor Flights, greeting veterans as they return from trips to Washington, D.C., where they visit monuments dedicated to their service. I was honored to serve as an escort on one of those trips.

In addition to these collaborations, I serve on the board of the Association of Military Banks of America, a trade organization focused on financial services for the military and veterans. Members represent banks on and near military installations and advocate for strong, innovative military banking solutions.

Wounded Warriors on Cataract Canyon is another organization that Regions supports. Tell us about the trip you made with that group a few years ago.

I had the opportunity to attend a multi-day whitewater rafting trip down the Green and Colorado rivers, sponsored by Wounded Warriors of Cataract Canyon, a nonprofit that works with active-duty military and veterans. When I arrived in Moab, Utah, I was surrounded by fellow service members from all branches – each of us carrying some form of disability from our time in uniform. Some injuries were visible, while others were the “hidden” wounds that are so common after leaving the battlefield.

Our time together, both on and off the river, was filled with laughter, reflection and most importantly, healing. It’s hard to describe how powerful it is to connect with others who have “been there, done that” and truly understand your experience.

At the start of the trip, we each shared personal goals we hoped to accomplish. I was able to meet mine, and along the way, I formed lasting friendships that I still maintain today. It was a deeply meaningful and healing experience for all of us.

How is Regions supporting veterans and those serving in the U.S. Armed Forces during the current government shutdown?

During a shutdown, Regions leans on its Customer Assistance Program, which supports bank customers with specific, unforeseen needs on a case-by-case basis. Bank teams are available to discuss payment or assistance solutions related to credit cards, personal loans, home equity loans and business loans. Potential solutions include loan payment deferrals, interest rate discounts on new loans and fee waivers for specific services – all with access to a dedicated team. Our goal is to offer quality solutions using products and services already in place for all customers affected by disasters, emergencies and prolonged effects of government shutdowns.

Regions’ military customers, as well as furloughed government employees and others experiencing financial uncertainty due to direct effects of the government shutdown, can speak with a banker by calling 1-800-221-7471 to discuss available Customer Assistance Program support. Members of the U.S. Armed Forces can also contact the Regions Military Customer Service line at 1-855-REG-4MIL (734-4645) for assistance.

You’re doing amazing work, Steve. How can others get involved in veterans and military support?

Many Regions associates are already making a difference in our communities. In Indianapolis,  Schiela Peña, head of Disability Services and Outreach at Regions, is vice chair of the board for the Indiana National Guard Relief Fund and local Regions teams provide Regions Next Step^® financial wellness sessions to the guardsmen and their families.

Kay Goke, a Digital Experience researcher in the Technology, Operations, Digital and Data division, is deeply involved in the military community in Shreveport – and was honored with this year’s Lee Ann Petty Heart of Service Award for her outstanding contributions.

Across the bank, associates are volunteering, delivering financial wellness education and supporting veterans agencies through United Way contributions. In fact, your local United Way chapter is a great place to start when looking for ways to support veterans organizations. They often partner with groups that provide housing, job training, mental health services and other critical resources for veterans and their families.

Whether it’s through volunteering, advocacy or simply reaching out to learn more, there are many ways to get involved. Every effort helps strengthen the support network for those who’ve served.

Equal Opportunity Employer/including Disabled/Veterans