For more than 34 years, Betty Marthaler has led Lake Region Bank’s Good Neighbor Club with passion, warmth, and a spirit of adventure. From international getaways to Minnesota day trips, Betty has built a travel program that connects members, creates lifelong memories, and makes exploring the world easier and more fun.
Lake Region Bank is proud to have the incomparable Betty Marthaler at the helm of our Good Neighbor Club. Take a moment to get to know Lake Region Bank Good Neighbor Club director Betty Marthaler and learn why the last three decades have been a labor of love for her.
Betty, how long have you worked for Lake Region Bank?
BM: I’ve worked at Lake Region Bank for more than 34 years. I joined the Lake Region Bank team in 1991 when Paul Vollan asked me if I was looking for part-time work to supplement my real estate career. I used Paul and Lake Region Bank (then called Farmers State Bank) as my mortgage broker.
I spent two years job sharing with another employee. Then, Paul asked me if I wanted to run the bank’s club for its customers over age 50. I jumped at the chance to go full-time at Lake Region Bank. The rest is history!
Why do you think the Good Neighbor Club trips are so popular?
BM: Over the years, members have told me that they wouldn’t have been able to travel if it wasn’t for the Good Neighbor Club. When you travel with the Good Neighbor Club, you travel with familiar people in comfort. I plan, organize, and lead all the trips myself. After three decades, I’ve gotten to know how to find the best accommodations and transportation options. All of this makes our trips a great option for single people or couples who want to travel but don’t want to do it alone.
How do you pick the club’s destinations?
BM: I get a lot of requests from Good Neighbor Club members! Our recent trip to Ireland and Scotland was a request from Good Neighbor Club members. Over the last 30 years, the club has traveled to nearly 40 different destinations. I’m still hoping to finally make it to China! The Kentucky Derby and Cuba may be on the horizon, too. It’s all down to where members want to go.
What are some of your favorite Minnesota trips?
BM: Oh, it’s so difficult to name just a few! The Good Neighbor Club organizes several Minnesota trips a month, and we host our own events at the Willmar bank location. We go to Twins games, see Broadway shows, and take a monthly trip to Mystic Lake Casino. We try to make it to the State Fair every year, and took a few dozen people to see The Jason Show in 2023.
What are you most looking forward to this year at the Good Neighbor Club?
BM: One of my favorite things to organize are our post-trip parties. I always host a party after our extended trips so participants can share memories and photos. I pay for the meal and the cocktails. It’s a wonderful way to wrap up a trip (and get people dreaming about the next one!). I’m also looking forward to finally going on our Portugal trip in April.
Want to learn more about the Good Neighbor Club? Get in touch with Good Neighbor Club director Betty Marthaler today or call 320-214-3009.
Good Neighbor Club FAQs
Who is Betty Marthaler?
Betty Marthaler is the longtime director of Lake Region Bank’s Good Neighbor Club and has been with the bank for over 34 years, organizing travel and social opportunities for members age 50 and better.
What makes Good Neighbor Club trips special?
Every trip is personally planned, organized, and led by Betty, ensuring a comfortable, friendly, and well-coordinated experience. They are perfect for both couples and solo travelers.
How are travel destinations chosen for the Good Neighbor Club?
Betty selects destinations based on member requests and feedback, offering a mix of international adventures and regional favorites throughout the year.
What local activities does the Good Neighbor Club offer?
Members enjoy Minnesota outings such as Twins games, Broadway shows, casino trips, and events at the Willmar branch, along with special post-trip gatherings hosted by Betty.
