Our History
About Community West Bank
Building a Stronger Community Bank for Central California
The Community West Bank story has been guided by a singular vision: to help our clients and communities succeed. For more than four decades, that vision has remained deeply rooted in Central California, shaping a strong, relationship-driven community bank. We are proud of our legacy of success and committed to carrying that strength forward for generations to come.
Elevating Community Banking Since 1979
Established in 1979, Community West Bancshares (Company) (NASDAQ: CWBC) and Community West Bank (Bank) exist to help businesses and communities by exceeding expectations at every opportunity. Since opening its first Banking Center in January 1980, the Bank has cultivated a solid track record of financial strength, security, and stability. Today’s Community West Bank is a well-capitalized institution with nearly $5 billion in assets as of April 1, 2026, offering full-service Banking Centers located in 31 communities across Central California. Throughout its history, the Bank’s key advantage has been its people – professional bankers dedicated to exemplary “relationship banking,” client advocacy, and strong community support.
Guided by Values. Driven by Mission
Community West Bank has always remained true to its core values of teamwork, caring, inclusivity, excellence, accountability, and integrity. The Company believes that accountable corporate behavior is essential for a community bank, and works hard to contribute to a more equitable, resilient future for clients, team members, shareholders, and the communities it serves. Community West Bank’s mission statement helps foster a corporate culture designed to “Inspire and empower our team to enrich and invest in every relationship by exceeding expectations.”
Shaped by History
Founded by a diverse group of business owners and former bankers who understood how a true community bank would benefit the region, Community West Bank began in Clovis and soon expanded to the Central Sierra communities of Shaver Lake and Prather, before growing into Fresno, the Greater Sacramento region, across the San Joaquin Valley, and the Central Coast.
The Company proudly serves clients across Central California, and is closely connected with the communities where team members live, work, and raise their families – all while investing in those locales to help them succeed and thrive. To achieve this, Community West Bank supports a wide variety of community organizations with leadership involvement, financial donations, volunteerism, and educational initiatives.
Inspired by the Future
Guided by the Company’s proven leadership and Board of Directors, Community West Bank’s greatest days lie ahead. The Company is honored to share those days with the team members, clients, investors, and communities whose support is appreciated and valued.
The Company is regulated by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, the Federal Reserve Board, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation.
On April 1, 2026, Community West Bancshares completed its merger with United Security Bancshares, in which United Security Bancshares merged with and into Community West Bancshares as the surviving company, and United Security Bank merged with and into Community West Bank.