YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio - Premier Bank has announced on Thursday that it has awarded Commercial Loan Closer Ashley Douglas the Seventh Annual Jeff Vereecke Community Impact Award.

According to a press release, the award recognizes an individual who shares in the bank's dedication and passion for spreading kindness, doing good deeds and making the community stronger by demonstrating superior service to their community.

Douglas was selected by Premier's executive management team as well as Jeff Vereecke's widow Karen Vereecke. Jeff was the former Executive Vice President of Premier Bank. He died of cancer in 2014.

"When I think about helping others I am reminded of my dad, Ned Shippoli. He always went the extra mile to help people, and be a good person. I know he is watching over me proud that I am carrying on his legacy," Douglas said.

Douglas's involvement throughout the Valley includes working with parents and staff on the Alta Head Start Agency to encourage participation in their child's education, wellbeing and involvement in agency's monthly events and school meetings.

Additionally, she serves as chairwoman of the Policy Council and the agency's location at the Oak Hill Renaissance Center. She participates in Premier's Mentor Program and Explorer Leadership Series.

She also volunteers at Youngstown CityScape's Streetscape event, the Youngstown Holiday Parade and Light Up Night, the American Heart Association Heart Walk, the Panerathon and much more.

As part of the award, Douglas received $2,500 to donate to any non-profit organization of her choice.

She chose to donate $1,500 to Alta Head Start and the remaining $1,000 to the United Way of Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley.