Washington Trust doesn’t just serve its local communities; it is a part of them. More than 210 years ago, a group of community leaders from Westerly, Rhode Island and Stonington, Connecticut formed the Bank for the purpose of providing quality service to the people of those communities. Today, we serve communities throughout Rhode Island, Connecticut and Massachusetts, but the core values have remained. Washington Trust hasn’t lost sight of the fact that community involvement is its lifeblood. That’s why the Bank is committed to the people who are its neighbors.
Reach for the Stars is an ongoing program that rewards employees with “stars” for volunteering in Bank-sponsored events. As part of this award-winning volunteer program, Washington Trust's management and employees are actively involved in the local community, serving in such roles as board members, committee chairs, coaches, and mentors. The Bank also supports and encourages employee participation and volunteer fundraising efforts for activities such as housing builds, walk-a-thons, dress down days, food and clothing drives.
Washington Trust recognizes employees’ volunteer efforts in various ways. Employees who earn 50 stars or more, which equates to 100 or more hours of community service, receive Presidential Volunteer Service Awards. The President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation created the President’s Volunteer Service Award program as a way to thank and honor Americans who, by their demonstrated commitment and example, inspire others to engage in volunteer service. In 2010, 33 Bank employees received this prestigous award.
Washington Trust encourages Bank Officers to participate in "Community Care Days” throughout the year. Teams of employees volunteer during business hours to help with critical community projects. Types of assistance include: