We're celebrating April as National Volunteer Month and recognizing some of our members who are making an impact in the communities where they live and work. Every year, local bank employees donate thousands of volunteer hours to a multitude of causes across New Jersey as part of their commitment to social responsibility.
Bank of America and The Community FoodBank of New Jersey (CFBNJ) have maintained a longstanding partnership to combat food insecurity in the state.
For decades, the bank has supported CFBNJ, including through regular employee volunteerism. At their most recent volunteer shift, team members logged 30 hours and supported over 1,280 meals.
"When our volunteers come together at CFBNJ, it's not just about packing food and preparing meals; it's about strengthening our communities, restoring dignity, and standing together to ensure that no one faces hunger alone," said Alberto Garofalo, president, Bank of America New Jersey.
Blue Foundry Bank and the Blue Foundry Charitable Foundation have demonstrated their commitment to giving back to New Jersey communities through their support of philanthropic efforts. In 2024, the Foundation awarded over $200,000 in grants and the Bank launched a Community Impact Program that encourages employees to contribute to local causes. The Community Impact Program initiative has led to partnerships with organizations like the Women’s Rights Information Center, joining to collect and package school supplies for those in need.
"The efforts of our organization demonstrate the powerful impact of targeted community investment, enabling nonprofit organizations in New Jersey to enhance their local support," said James D. Nesci, President & CEO of Blue Foundry Bank and Vice President of the Blue Foundry Charitable Foundation.
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ince its inception, Columbia Bank has made affordable housing accessible to New Jersey residents through various loan programs and community initiatives. Many employees sit on non-profit boards advocating for affordable housing, and the Bank collaborates with organizations aiding vulnerable populations. By providing financial literacy education, sponsoring schools, and organizing seminars on money management and home buying, Columbia Bank highlights its commitment to sustainable homeownership.
The Columbia Bank Foundation focuses on seven primary areas, one of which is affordable housing. In 2024 alone, the Housing Grant program allocated over $428,000. Additionally, Columbia Bank values time donations, demonstrated by their long-term partnership with Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County.
Jonathan Senos, President of Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County, and Director of Financial Reporting at Columbia Bank stated, “Columbia Bank has had a long-standing and engaging partnership with various Habitat for Humanity organizations throughout the state of New Jersey. Columbia Bank’s affordable housing solutions and volunteer work supports Habitat for Humanity’s construction programs, critical repair programs, and ReStore operations, which are essential to making the dream of home ownership a reality for many families here in the communities we serve. Our collective efforts aim to continue to assist families in constructing affordable homes in the current housing environment."
In October, JPMorganChase volunteered with America's Grow-a-Row, assembling a team to help harvest squash.
Approximately 50 JPMorganChase employees, across various lines of business, rolled up their sleeves and dug into the dirt for a day of service. The volunteers harvested 98,000 pounds of squash – equivalent to 392,000 servings. The squash was donated to local food banks, helping to support those in need throughout the state.
“JPMorganChase values giving back to our neighbors around New Jersey. Our partnership with America’s Grow-A-Row allowed us to not only demonstrate our commitment to community support, but also highlight the power of collaboration to make a meaningful impact,” said Ken Freelund, Managing Director, J.P. Morgan Private Bank, New Jersey.
Over the years Magyar Bank has partnered with Elijah's Promise to fight to end hunger in our community. Recently, Magyar Bank alongside Rutgers Football, rolled up their sleeves with Chef Chrissy and contributed to the preparation of over 1,700 meals, witnessing firsthand the impact of their efforts on our neighbors in New Brunswick. The afternoon was truly MAGnificent, a powerful reminder of the difference we can make together. The Bank is deeply honored to support Elijah's Promise and looks forward to continuing the partnership.
“To know that our hands helped create so many meals that feed so many in our community, it’s a feeling you can't get every day. You go in thinking you're there to give and help, but you leave realizing how much you've received in return just by being there. It’s a nice reminder that we all have the ability to make a positive impact any day," said John Reissner, First Vice President.
At Manasquan Bank giving back to New Jersey communities is at the heart of who they are. Through their award-winning CREW Cares volunteer program, employees dedicate their time and efforts to making a meaningful impact across the communities the Bank serves. Whether it’s supporting local food banks, participating in environmental clean-ups, habitat builds, or mentoring students, the Manasquan Bank team is committed to service beyond banking.
“CREW Cares is a testament to the dedication of our employees and their passion for helping others. We’re proud to support initiatives that strengthen our communities and create lasting, positive change,” said Cathy Franzoni, Manasquan Bank’s SEVP, Chief Operating Officer.
The Bank is proud to celebrate National Volunteer Month by recognizing the incredible work their team does year-round, volunteering nearly 300 hours of service annually.
Team members from Provident Bank's Corporate Property Management Group recently came together to support the Interfaith Food Pantry Network in Morris Plains. They assisted in tasks including sorting, bagging, and distributing more than 3,500 pounds of fresh fruit and vegetables, which served 80 local families in need.
“At Provident Bank, we take great pride in supporting non-profit organizations that provide essential services to the communities we serve," said Anthony Labozzetta, President & CEO of Provident Bank. “I want to personally thank our team members who recently volunteered their time at Interfaith Food Pantry Network to make a meaningful impact. Their work embodies the values and community spirit that Provident is known for.”
Spencer Savings Bank had the pleasure of kicking off Spring by volunteering with The Arc of Bergen and Passaic Counties — a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, helping them lead fulfilling and inclusive lives.
As part of their visit, Spencer made a generous donation of official bingo equipment to support the organization’s Adult Day Services Program. The Bank also rallied a team of bankers to join the fun, spending the day playing six exciting rounds of bingo with The Arc’s clients. The event was live-streamed to include participants from off-site programs as well, helping to spread the joy even further.
"In true Arc tradition, each bingo round was followed by spontaneous dance parties— filling the room with music, laughter, and high spirits. The joy and excitement on everyone's faces made the experience incredibly rewarding," said Janel Bazih, VP, Head of Marketing. "It reminded us all just how impactful small acts of kindness can be. To top it all off, thanks to the incredible generosity of our employees and customers, we were able to present The Arc with a $5,500 donation to further support their amazing programs. We left the event inspired, grateful, and proud to represent Spencer Savings Bank in giving back to the community we love."
Sturdy Savings Bank is dedicated to supporting and giving back to the local Cape May and Atlantic County communities. With deep roots throughout both regions, the Sturdy Team contributes their time, resources, and leadership to help build strong, resilient communities.
Sturdy Savings Bank’s dedication to service reflects the values at the core of community banking: trust, responsibility, and a commitment to making a difference. This commitment is demonstrated by the many organizations the bank supports, including local nonprofits such as Habitat for Humanity of Cape May County, Family Promise of Cape May County, and CARA (Coalition Against Rape and Abuse) – all of which work tirelessly to meet local shelter, food, and humanitarian needs
Sturdy Savings Bank hosted their fourth annual Run Wild 5K & 1 Mile Walk on Sunday, April 27, a community race benefiting both the Cape May County Park and Zoo and The Branches Outreach of Rio Grande – a nonprofit dedicated to helping individuals and families facing homelessness and food insecurity.
“We’re so excited to watch this annual event gain popularity and recognition as a successful, family-fun fundraiser. We are further grateful to support and work with the Zoo and this year’s benefactor The Branches Outreach of Rio Grande,” said Bank President and CEO Greg Matuson.
Valley Bank has partnered with Jewish Vocational Service (JVS) of MetroWest for many years providing financial education and ongoing engagement. In addition, CEO Ira Robbins has served on JVS’ Board of Trustees for many years, and Valley associates actively volunteer their time to support JVS’ programs each year.
JVS is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals achieve independence and employment through various programs and services. They offer vocational training, education, and career services across five main areas: disability services, education and literacy, refugee services, workforce development and career services. JVS aims to empower individuals by equipping them with the skills and resources needed to achieve their career goals and improve their quality of life.
Valley Bank’s VIP interns, their managers, and mentors, participated in the 2024 Week of Service – a series of community volunteer engagements hosted in conjunction with community partners across Valley’s footprint. In New Jersey, 87 employees and summer interns dedicated 295 volunteer hours to support JVS of MetroWest. The volunteers participated in various activities, including assembly and warehouse tasks, conducting mock interviews, and researching emerging market sectors to aid JVS's strategic planning.
"At Valley, we believe that giving back is not just an initiative—it’s part of our culture," said Kaitlyn Schillizzi, Senior Vice President, Corporate Social Responsibility. "Volunteering at JVS gave our team, especially our interns, a meaningful opportunity to connect with the community, build empathy, and see the real impact of service.”