Pioneer Marks Giving Tuesday with $25,000 to Five Capital Region Nonprofits, Surpasses $2 Million in Charitable Giving
Albany, NY – Pioneer (NASDAQ: PBFS), a leading financial institution in New York’s Capital Region, participated in the national celebration of Giving Tuesday by presenting $25,000 in donations to five local nonprofit organizations dedicated to improving the lives of local children. With this donation, the Pioneer Charitable Foundation has surpassed $2 million in financial donations to over 400 Capital Region nonprofits since its formation in 2018. Donations of $5,000 were made to five organizations at Pioneer’s headquarters in Albany, NY during a check presentation on Wednesday, December 3. Each nonprofit supports children and families through programs that expand access to food, learning, wellness, emotional support, and youth development. “The organizations we’re supporting this year give children and families stability, opportunity, and care when they need it most,” said Pioneer President and CEO Tom Amell. “Giving Tuesday is a chance for the Pioneer Charitable Foundation to recognize that work, and to honor the commitment our employees show every day in helping our communities thrive.” Five local nonprofits received funding from “Pioneers with Purpose” grants, which are fully supported by employee donations made throughout the year. Agencies are nominated by Pioneer employees, and a volunteer employee committee selects the recipients. This year’s grants support Athletic Haven, which creates opportunities for young athletes in Rensselaer and Albany counties; The Community Hospice Foundation, providing end-of-life care and grief support to children and teens through Camp Erin across multiple Upstate New York counties; Prabhuji Food Distribution, delivering nutritious food to families in Greene, Columbia, Ulster, and Albany counties; The Reading Is Fun Program in Schenectady County, helping Pre-K through 3rd-grade students develop critical reading skills; and Veterans Miracle Center, offering veterans and active-duty military households clothing, household items, toys, and other essentials. Along with financial support, Pioneer employees regularly donate hundreds of hours each year to extend the reach and impact of the Pioneer Charitable Foundation. Their involvement spans a wide range of activities, from community service projects and quarterly giving drives to signature events such as Pioneer’s Grand Carnival and Mini-Golf Tournament. In addition, Pioneer covers all operational costs for the Pioneer Charitable Foundation, ensuring that 100% of funds raised directly benefit local children, families, and community organizations in need. “Our employees take pride in stepping up for the community and supporting local kids and families,” said Susan Hollister, Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer and Co-Chair of the Pioneer Charitable Foundation. “Seeing the difference they make through volunteering, mentoring, and events is inspiring. That spirit drives everything we do at Pioneer.” To learn more about the Pioneer Charitable Foundation, and/or make a secure online donation, visit www.pioneerny.com/community