Skowhegan Savings Bank employees have once again demonstrated their commitment to community support by donating $20,000 to 20 local nonprofits during the bank’s fourth annual Season of Giving. This initiative, which began in 2021, allows employees to select organizations that will each receive a $1,000 grant, reflecting the bank’s dedication to enhancing the lives of those in their communities.
Key Takeaways
- Total Donation: $20,000 distributed among 20 nonprofits.
- Initiative Start Year: 2021.
- Employee Involvement: Employees select the recipient organizations.
A Commitment to Community
David Cyr, president and CEO of Skowhegan Savings, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "Our annual Season of Giving reflects the bank’s commitment to giving back and showing our appreciation of these nonprofit organizations, who work to strengthen our communities throughout the year." This year’s recipients included a diverse range of organizations, from food pantries to humane societies, showcasing the bank’s broad impact.
Notable Recipients
Among the 20 nonprofits receiving grants this year were:
- Baker Mountain Ski Tow Club
- Fairfield Food Pantry
- Goodwill Hinckley Food Cupboard
- Kennebec Valley Humane Society
- Make-A-Wish Maine
- Somerset Humane Society
- The Sweet Dreams Project
One of the highlights was the donation to the John Domareki Kindness Award Scholarship Program, which honors a beloved community member known for his volunteer work and kindness. Molly Chapman, retail operations manager, shared, "This scholarship award was set up to recognize students who exhibit the same kindness, respect at school and within the community that he did."
Special Recognition for Local Initiatives
The Rangeley branch employees chose the Sargent Family Community Fund as their grant recipient. Craig Sargent, the fund’s founder, explained its mission: "The Sargent Family Community Fund was founded to benefit the people in the area who do not have the means they need to live at an optimal level."
Additionally, the bank’s call center team surprised Make-A-Wish Maine with their grant, aiming to bring joy to children facing serious illnesses. Debbie Kramer, assistant vice president and call center manager, expressed the team’s desire to make a positive impact, stating, "It brings joy to our hearts that we can make a wish come true in putting a smile on a child’s face."
A Year of Generosity
In 2024, Skowhegan Savings Bank has donated over $400,000 to local nonprofits and community initiatives, reinforcing its role as a pillar of support in the region. Cyr noted the enthusiasm of employees in selecting the nonprofits, highlighting the diversity of organizations chosen and the gratitude expressed by recipients when they receive the grants.
For more information about the Skowhegan Savings’ Charitable Foundation or the Season of Giving program, interested individuals can visit the bank’s official website.
Sources
- Skowhegan Savings employees donate $20,000 to 20 nonprofits during 4th annual Season of Giving -Piscataquis Observer, Piscataquis Observer.
