Camden, Maine, September 19, 2024 – Camden National Bank’s employee-led Diversity Council has delved into the local community to identify organizations dedicated to advancing women through accessible and tangible programs that address critical areas such as childcare and caregiving, education and mentorship, and the growth of woman-owned small businesses. On behalf of the passion and work of the Diversity Council, Camden National Bank is proud to donate $10,000 to Coastal Enterprises, Inc. (“CEI”), a Maine-based organization whose ongoing programs throughout the state address all of those critical areas.
“With a significant number of women among Camden National Bank’s workforce, we are wholeheartedly invested in ensuring women have the resources, support, and access to training and mentorship to achieve success and advancement in their careers,” said Simon Griffiths, executive sponsor of the Diversity Council and president and chief executive officer at Camden National Bank.
CEI is a Maine-based organization with a mission to “build a just, vibrant, and climate-resilient future for people and communities in Maine and rural areas.” The funds donated by Camden National Bank will be instrumental in supporting staffing, facilitation, and logistics costs of CEI’s existing initiatives. These range from empowering entrepreneurs who identify as female through monthly networking groups, hosting a BIPOC Network Builder, and providing 1:1 advising through the ongoing work of CEI’s Child Care Business Lab, which has helped 33 new childcare businesses become licensed since 2020.
“I’m proud to see the Diversity Council choose to support such a prominent organization that shares our passion for vitalizing our communities,” continued Griffiths.
“We are thrilled to receive this support from Camden National Bank, and to continue to grow and foster the relationship between our organizations,” said Sarah Guerette, senior director of business development services at CEI. “We are committed to supporting female-identifying entrepreneurs in reaching their full potential as a driver of Maine’s economy and community growth.”
By directing their support to address fundamental human needs, culture and community, and economic vitality, Camden National Bank is striving to maximize its impact on the communities they serve. This grant to CEI aligns with these focus areas, and CEI’s programming complements the efforts of Camden National Bank’s Diversity Council, making this an ideal partnership to foster positive change in their communities.
In March 2024, more than 20 future childcare providers (13 facilities and 10 family child cares) started their licensing journeys with our Child Care Business Lab: Get Licensed program. (Shown in the photo above.) 10 counties from across the state are represented. In addition to intrepid solo entrepreneurs, there are several acquisitions and community partnerships between a public school, an employer, and a tribal government group.
Camden National Corporation (NASDAQ: CAC) is the largest publicly traded bank holding company in Northern New England, with $5.7 billion in assets and 57 banking centers. Founded in 1875, Camden National Bank is a full-service community bank, offering the latest digital banking, complemented by award-winning, personalized service. Camden National Bank has been recognized as one of the Best Places to Work by Best Companies Group and named to Forbes’ World's Best Banks list. Visit CamdenNational.bank for more information. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.
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