Andre Bennett sounds like an energy conservation expert as he shows visitors around his home on Chicago's South Side, enthusiastically pointing out the energy-saving improvements included in his rehab. From the oak-beamed living room to a cozy study where he envisions his children doing their homework, Andre has incorporated features that are good for both his family and the environment.

When Andre and his wife, Lolita, came to ShoreBank for a mortgage to finance improvements to their home, they never imagined that they would be able to help the environment as well. With assistance from ShoreBank's Homeowner's Energy Conservation Program, that's just what they've done.

ShoreBank gave the Bennetts one loan that combined purchase and rehabbing costs, along with detailed recommendations on how to make their home more energy efficient. "ShoreBank helped me understand how I could save money while making my home more valuable and more comfortable to live in," says Andre. "And they offered me a great mortgage package so I could afford to make the necessary changes." ShoreBank also partners with Northern Illinois Energy Project to give a free ENERGY STAR®-qualified refrigerator to homeowners who spend at least $2,000 on energy-smart improvements.

ShoreBank is committed to protecting the environment. Helping customers make home improvements that save energy and add value is just one way it works to enhance the health of communities.