SBM Charitable Foundation Celebrating Years of Giving, Surpassing $44 Million 'Community Impact'

MANCHESTER, CT — The SBM Charitable Foundation is not only celebrating its 25th anniversary, but marking a significant milestone in giving back to the community.

Since its inception, the foundation has awarded more than $44 million in grants to nonprofit organizations, supporting initiatives that "strengthen and enrich communities throughout Hartford, Tolland, and Windham counties."

"For 25 years, the SBM Charitable Foundation has remained committed to supporting organizations that improve quality of life in our communities,” SBM Foundation Executive Director said Molly C. Devanney said. "This milestone is not just about the dollars we’ve given, but about the lives that have been touched and the partnerships we’ve built along the way."

As part of the anniversary celebration, the Foundation is also honoring its recently retired Executive Director, Doreen Downham, who retired on Feb. after 40 years with the SBM "family," including 15 years leading the Foundation. Her leadership played a vital role in shaping the foundation's mission and expanding its impact over the past quarter
century.

"Our focus has always been on making thoughtful investments that truly strengthen our communities,” Board chairman Douglas Anderson, said. "For 25 years, the Foundation
has remained committed to supporting organizations that are doing meaningful work, and we are proud to continue that legacy of impact."

As the SBM Charitable Foundation looks ahead, it remains committed to "continuing its mission of impactful philanthropy, building on 25 years of giving and investing in the future of the communities it serves," officials said.

The SBM Charitable Foundation's mission is "perpetuating the vision of the former Savings Bank of Manchester," and "is committed to bettering the lives of those who live and work predominantly East of the River in Hartford, Tolland, and Windham Counties."

Priorities established for the foundation's giving are health, human services, education, housing, and the arts.