April 20, 2026 – Pathward’s Volunteer of the Year award recognizes an employee for their unwavering commitment to the betterment of their community through volunteerism. Each year, the employee is selected through a peer nomination process and invited to direct a $5,000 company donation to their qualifying nonprofit of choice.
As we celebrate Volunteer Week, Pathward is pleased to recognize Maren Hock, Manager of Shared Services Operations, as our 2025 Volunteer of the Year!
Since childhood, Hock has understood that giving back doesn’t need to be financial to be meaningful. Over the years, driven by the support she and her family received during challenging seasons, Hock’s work has connected her to a range of causes, from food insecurity to housing and education, and support for veterans and their families. Her commitment to these issues has led to years of sustained service across several Sioux Falls-based and regional organizations. From hands-on volunteering to board service, event coordination, and skills-based support, Hock truly embodies the spirit of service at the heart of Pathward. What’s more, she leads Pathward’s Military Veterans Network Employee Resource Group and champions volunteerism, frequently organizing events and encouraging her colleagues to get involved.
As part of her recognition, Hock has directed a $5,000 company donation to Harmony South Dakota.
Hock shared, “Nonprofits have truly changed my life. I’m so thankful for these organizations because they’ve not only helped me develop, but they’ve also helped me develop my children. Just knowing firsthand the impact that these organizations can have and how they can shape and change the trajectory of people’s lives has been heartening.
“Volunteering has given me a deep appreciation for access, dignity, and opportunity. Pathward as an organization aims to reach those who are underserved by traditional banking – and that intention bleeds into everything we do by centering people and being intentional. I see volunteerism as an extension of my role because I’m so proud to work for a company that values community and encourages us to show up in everything that we do outside of work.”
Through Pathward’s Community Impact Program, eligible employees can take 16 hours of Volunteer Time Off each year. Also, by logging volunteer hours, employees can direct up to $480 per year to their favorite qualifying nonprofit through our Dollars for Doers program. Learn more about how Pathward is giving back in our 2025 Impact Report.
Pathward encourages employee engagement in the communities we serve, and Hock exemplifies this. Learn more about careers and employee benefits at Pathward.
