Thirty-three CT & RI non-profit organizations awarded grants from Chelsea Groton Foundation

GROTON, Conn. (May 29, 2013) – Chelsea Groton Foundation announced today the selection of 33 area organizations to receive grants totaling $72,405, continuing the Foundation’s biannual giving tradition. Formed in June 1998 as a Section 501(c) (3) organization and endowed with a $2,000,000 donation from Chelsea Groton Bank, the Foundation has, to date, awarded $1,606,200 in grants given to hundreds of scientific, educational and charitable organizations located in Eastern Connecticut and Southern Rhode Island. “To advance the quality of life of people who live in our community has been Chelsea Groton Foundation’s mission since inception. We do that by supporting the respective causes of our grantees and working in conjunction with their dedicated leaders, staff and volunteers,” explained Chelsea Groton Bank President and CEO Michael Rauh. “The commitment, drive and progress for the sake of others exhibited by these organizations are inspirational, and we’re thrilled we can help. Grants awarded included: $3,000 for the Dennison Pequotsepos Nature Center to help acquire the Mystic-based Coogan Farm and turn it into a history and nature park; $2,500 for the Greater Westerly Chamber of Commerce to help small businesses in Misquamicut devastated by Hurricane Sandy; $2,000 for Primera Iglesia Bautista Hispana to help New London area low-income and/or first-generation students enter and complete college; $2,000 for the Central Baptist Church’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program to help reduce food insecurity for Norwich adults and children; and $2,500 for American Legion Veterans Housing, Inc. to help restore and refurbish the LaFlamme-Kusek American Legion Post #15 into a facility that provides direct care and support for homeless military veterans in our community. “Bank employees give back too, volunteering at favorite organizations and special events, raising funds for urgent causes and donating time to teach those wanting a leg up. I dare say, just like the 33 grantees, we all subscribe to the belief that shared trust, purpose and respect—our bank’s mutual philosophy—enriches life for everyone in our neighborhoods.” Each year, Chelsea Groton Bank and the Chelsea Groton Foundation support more than 200 local, nonprofit organizations through monetary gifts, grants, sponsorships, scholarships, and employee volunteerism via donations of time and talent. Year to date, the bank and its employees have contributed more than $234,248 and thousands of hours to benefit their community. For more information about the Foundation’s grant awardees contact Sue Olszewski, Assistant Treasurer and Assistant to the President, at (860) 448-4105 or email her at zolszewski@chelseagroton.com. About Chelsea Groton Bank Based in Groton, Conn., Chelsea Groton Bank is a mutually owned bank with 14 locations throughout New London County. The bank has $880 million in assets and serves businesses, individuals and families throughout Eastern Connecticut and Southern Rhode Island. To learn more, please visit chelseagroton.com.