#United States #Houston #Cornerstone Capital Bank #Team Member Stock Ownership #Cornerstone Cares Fund

Cornerstone Capital Bank's New Team Member Stock Ownership Program

In a significant development for employee engagement and community investment, Cornerstone Capital Bank unveiled its inaugural Team Member Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) on April 9, 2026. This landmark initiative empowers employees by granting them ownership stakes in the company. The ESOP is not only a financial incentive but also aligns employee success with the long-term growth and performance of Cornerstone, reinforcing a culture of engagement and commitment.

Understanding ESOP and Its Impact

The newly introduced ESOP allows team members, including those working in collaborative ventures with builders and real estate brokers, to own shares in Cornerstone. According to Adam Laird, Vice Chairman of Cornerstone, establishing this ESOP was a multi-year endeavor that highlights the bank's commitment to its workforce.

"This initiative rewards our hard-working team members beyond regular compensation, giving them a stake in the success they help create," Laird explained. The idea is rooted in the belief that engaged employees, who feel a sense of ownership, deliver exceptional service, benefiting both clients and the company at large.

Scott Almy, President and CEO of Cornerstone, adds, "Our ESOP exemplifies our understanding that team members who act as owners approach their work with heightened dedication, driving both client satisfaction and financial success. This reflects our conviction that as our business flourishes, so should our generosity."

The Cornerstone Cares Fund

Alongside the ESOP, the bank has also launched the Cornerstone Cares Fund, an internal initiative designed to provide financial relief to employees facing personal crises. This fund relies on voluntary contributions from team members and has already disbursed over $1.3 million in aid to more than 500 colleagues, showcasing the spirit of camaraderie and support among the workforce.

The Cares Fund embodies Cornerstone’s commitment to its staff, ensuring that those in need can access financial assistance during challenging times. This initiative fosters a supportive workplace, emphasizing that the well-being of employees is as vital as their professional contributions.

Volunteer Time Off (VTO) Initiative

In addition to the ESOP and the Cares Fund, Cornerstone Capital Bank is taking community involvement to the next level by introducing a Volunteer Time Off (VTO) policy. This program allows eligible employees to dedicate up to 16 paid hours each year to participate in charitable activities within their communities. Over the past year, employees have contributed approximately 2,800 hours to around 500 volunteer initiatives, highlighting their commitment to making a positive impact.

Almy pointed out, "The VTO initiative reflects the heart of our team members, and I am thrilled to see how they engage further in the communities we serve. Our goal is to deepen these connections and enhance our community involvement as Cornerstone continues to grow."

A Vision for the Future

The trifecta of initiatives—ESOP, the Cornerstone Cares Fund, and the VTO program—demonstrates the bank's dedication to serving its employees and the surrounding communities. It is not only about achieving business growth but also about ensuring a positive impact on all stakeholders involved.

As Cornerstone Capital Bank continues its upward trajectory, Laird emphasizes that the growth of these initiatives will be guided by the bank's mission: "We honor God by using our talents to make a positive difference in the lives of our Team Members, Clients, Shareholders, Communities, and the People who provide services to us."

Interested in being part of a purpose-driven team? Explore career opportunities at Cornerstone Capital Bank and join their mission to create a meaningful impact while fostering employee ownership and community involvement.

About Cornerstone Capital Bank

Headquartered in Houston, Cornerstone Capital Bank operates a community-focused banking franchise along with a national home lending and insurance platform. With a strong commitment to enhancing the lives of families, businesses, and communities, the bank has more than 1,500 team members and boasts a robust network of full-service banking locations and mortgage offices across Texas and beyond. As a recognized Fortune-certified Great Place to Work®, Cornerstone continues to lead with innovative practices and a customer-centric approach. For more information, visit CornerstoneCapital.com.