United Bank celebrated the beginning of two new economic development partnerships designed to assist the needs of consumers and business owners in the Escambia and Monroe areas at a reception Thursday at the bank’s main branch in Atmore.

United Bank president Bob Jones welcomed representatives from the Hale Empowerment & Revitalization Organization (HERO) and from the Women’s Business Center.

“Through innovation and through unique partnerships, we are finding new ways for our community bank to reach an underserved region,” Jones said. “The staff at HERO are experts when it comes to helping people better their social and economic situations, and the Women’s Business Center has a track record of working with business owners to make ideas reality.”

As part of its new partnership, United Bank is providing office space, phone and technology support for both organizations at its offices in Atmore. Initially HERO staffers will be available to discuss home renovation and rehabilitation and to assist with processing FEMA disaster claims. Representatives from the Women’s Business Center will assist owners and potential owners with business planning, management and getting the most from operating their small business.