Bank, employees donate $38,000 to United Way

Janet Doak (right), Katahdin Trust Branch Manager & Retail Services Officer in Ashland, and also the United Way of Aroostook’s 2019 Campaign Co-Chair, presents Sherry Locke, United Way of Aroostook Executive Director with a check for Katahdin Trust’s employee and corporate donations for 2019. (Courtesy of Katahdin Trust)

HOULTON, Maine — For more than 100 years Katahdin Trust and its employees have supported hundreds of local organizations through donations, volunteerism and in-kind donations. This year is no exception, as the bank recently presented $38,000 to the United Way of Aroostook.

“The Bank is extremely proud of its employees and the many ways in which they help make our communities better,” said Krista Putnam, senior vice president, marketing.

She said recently, employees were extremely generous in pledging approximately $21,500 for the 2019 United Way of Aroostook workplace campaign. In addition, they contributed an additional $525 through its Casual Because We Care Days.

“During the last quarter of each year, we conduct our annual employee campaign for United Way of Aroostook, and it seemed fitting to extend our fundraising efforts with our Casual Because We Care Days,” said Putnam.

All 180 Katahdin Trust employees throughout the northern Maine, greater Bangor and Portland area offices can dress casually on Fridays in support of various non-profit organizations all over the state. Each employee who participates in Casual Because We Care Days donates a minimum of $1 in exchange for the privilege to dress casually and wear jeans.

“Employee gifts were combined with additional monetary and in-kind donations by the bank, including a corporate match, our sponsorship of United Way’s Summer Slide, and support of other programs for a total of $38,300 for 2019,” Putnam added.

“Our commitment to the communities we serve is a top priority at Katahdin Trust and we are proud to partner with many different local non-profit organizations like the United Way of Aroostook.”

“We are so fortunate to have partners that are willing to support our efforts in building stronger communities,” said Sherry Locke, United Way executive director.

“In addition to their financial support, Katahdin Trust employees dedicated over 300 volunteer hours assisting us with projects county-wide. We are grateful to have them by our side, improving the lives of our neighbors and friends.”