Page 35 - BusinessWest January 20, 2025

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Caring Gesture
Florence Bank pledged a gift of $100,000 to Caring Health Center of Springfield and officially presented the award on Dec. 19 at the center. Among those at the check presentation were Caring Health Center President and CEO Tania Barber (pictured) and other leaders of the organization; Florence Bank President and CEO Matt Garrity (pictured) and other bank officials; and local dignitaries. The event underscored the need for health equity in the region’s diverse communities, and Barber told those in attendance that the bank’s donation offered the center a significant step toward the completion of its capital campaign.
Partnership
In 2024, Monson Savings Bank (MSB) continued its strong support of one of its community partners, Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services (MLKFS). The bank supported the MLKFS Be Love Project and the inclusion of the Springfield-based nonprofit in BusinessWest’s 2024 Giving Guide, and was a platinum- level sponsor of the organization’s first-ever Reunion Weekend, a three- day celebration. Pictured: MLKFS President and CEO Shannon Rudder (second from right) with, from left, MSB’s Wil Morales, President and CEO Dan Moriarty, and Kylie LaPlante.
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JANUARY 20, 2025 35
Legendary Hall of Fame Award
At its 2024 convention, Maaco announced the recipient of the annual Tony Martino Legendary Hall of Fame award. Joe Houghton, owner of Maaco West Springfield in Massachusetts,
was selected for this honor, which
was created to recognize individuals who are not only exceptional brand ambassadors, but who serve as a positive influence for both the brand and their local community. As a veteran, Houghton (pictured at center with his team) devotes his time to supporting fellow veterans in his community. The center was also recently recognized by the Springfield Regional Chamber as a Super 60 honoree.