Saco & Biddeford Savings (SBSI) employees are celebrating their strongest year ever of recorded service hours in the community in 2024, totaling more than 2,000 hours among 78 employees, according to a bank press release.
Throughout the year, employees participated in a range of activities, including at local events, supporting educational programs, and assisting in community development projects.
These initiatives not only provided much-needed support to local organizations – but also offered employees the opportunity to develop teamwork and leadership skills outside the workplace. This effort underscores the bank’s commitment to fostering a culture of giving back and supporting the communities where its employees live and work.
Laura Crowell, an auditor with the bank, clocked an impressive 260 hours. She shared, “Volunteering was always a part of our family’s lifestyle. I feel like serving is embedded in my DNA; I hope my actions encourage empathy in others. I’m grateful to work for a bank that values volunteerism and provides opportunities for employees to contribute. I encourage everyone to volunteer.”
Seventy-eight employees completed 572 activities at 69 York and Cumberland County organizations, including Biddeford High School Performing Arts, Saco Main Street, CourageLIVES, Camp Kita, Sweetser, Riding to the Top Therapeutic Riding Center, Seeds of Hope and Furniture Friends.
SBSI employees also help with The Saco Community Meal Program on the second Monday of each month, and volunteers love being able to prepare and serve a meal together.
“This year the Saco Meals Program has already served an all-time high of over 10,500 meals,” Executive Director and board President, Carmen Gawronski said. “We are very grateful for all of the volunteers and sponsors that come together each week to help us meet our mission of addressing social isolation and food insecurity in our community. The Saco Biddeford Savings team has been a key part of our success, and we enjoy working with SBSI volunteers each month in the kitchen!”
SBSI employees’ dedication not only reflects their commitment to making a positive impact in the community but also embodies some of the core values of the company culture, giving and service, that extend beyond the workplace. SBSI is proud of its volunteer efforts and looks forward to continuing to support initiatives that make a difference.
About Saco & Biddeford Savings Institution
Founded in 1827, Saco & Biddeford Savings is Maine’s oldest bank. For 197 years, SBSI has continued to meet the ever-changing needs of the customers and communities it serves. Fulfilling its commitment to mutuality, SBSI, in conjunction with Paquin & Carroll Insurance, has contributed more than $5.2 million to area organizations over the last 10 years. For more information, visit www.sbsavings.bank, Instagram at @SBSavings, Facebook at @sacobiddefordsavings, or visit one of their locations in Saco, Biddeford, Old Orchard Beach, Portland, Scarborough, South Portland or Westbrook. Member FDIC and an Equal Housing Lender.
