Valley Bank recently wrapped up its annual Week of Service initiative, bringing together interns, associates, mentors, and community partners across its footprint to engage in impactful volunteer work and deepen their understanding of community development.
As part of the nationwide effort, Valley Bank teamed up with the New Jersey Community Development Corporation (NJCDC) to host a high-energy “Super Day of Service” in Paterson. The event drew more than 40 Valley interns, 21 associates, managers, and mentors, alongside over 45 Paterson high school students, AmeriCorps members, and local leaders.
Participants engaged in professional networking, career exploration, and collaborative discussions. A central highlight of the day was an interactive community panel featuring prominent figures, including Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh and NJCDC President and CEO Bob Guarasci. Panelists addressed the importance of cross-sector collaboration between local government, nonprofits, and the private sector to spur neighborhood revitalization, expand affordable housing, and drive local economic growth.
“At Valley, our Week of Service Program reflects our commitment to strengthening the communities we serve in powerful and measurable ways,” Bernadette Mueller, executive vice president and chief CSR-CRA Officer at Valley, said. “By engaging local stakeholders, nonprofit partners, and community members, we gain valuable insights that help ensure our efforts and programs are aligned with the needs and priorities of the communities we serve. This engagement also enriches our interns’ professional development.”
Throughout July, Valley team members contributed their time to various nonprofit organizations spanning multiple states, including the Heart of Alabama Food Bank, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Arizona, AMIKids Tampa, Arrupe College in Illinois, Fresh Youth Initiatives in New York, and others.
