PeoplesBank Recognized for Corporate Responsibility, Community Support

HOLYOKE — PeoplesBank has been named a Top Corporate Charitable Contributor by the Boston Business Journal, which also recognized the bank’s employees by listing them as number three in the state for volunteer hours contributed. PeoplesBank was also included in the top three most generous corporate contributors in Western Mass.

“Our emphasis on supporting the community demonstrates the power of a mutual bank,” said Brian Canina, president of PeoplesBank. “Our focus is serving our customers and the communities where they live. The fact that we are not diverting funds to pay stockholders means we can instead invest in nonprofit organizations that improve the quality of life for all.”

Canina noted that he is especially proud of the bank’s associates for their commitment to volunteerism. “Being ranked number three on the list for highest average volunteer hours underscores our value of service. It’s part of our culture. We know that support often translates to more than a donation of money. Often, it means helping in the community or serving on a nonprofit board — and our associates do both in record numbers of hours.”

Matthew Bannister, senior vice president and head of Marketing and Corporate Responsibility, noted that the bank’s charitable impact has soared over the last decade, adding that “we now serve both Connecticut and Massachusetts, and our contributions, both in terms of financial support and volunteerism, have increased correspondingly.” He estimates that the 10-year contribution total is now close to $13 million total when both states are considered.

A sample of Massachusetts organizations supported by PeoplesBank include the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, Girls Inc. of the Valley, Spirit of Springfield, and Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services. Connecticut organizations supported by PeoplesBank include the Boys & Girls Club Greater Hartford, Habitat for Humanity of North Central Connecticut, Celebrate! WeHa, and Operation Fuel.

“PeoplesBank exemplifies an exceptional commitment to community by consistently responding to calls for action,” said Shannon Rudder, CEO of Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services (MLKFS) in Springfield. “Their proactive approach and focus on meaningful reinvestments truly strengthen and uplift our evolving neighborhoods. At MLKFS, we deeply appreciate their unwavering support and partnership, and we look forward to a collaborative future that continues to enhance our community.”