Daily CSR

Recently, 140 KeyBank Maine teammates and I completed 18 community projects, contributing 564 hours of service in a single afternoon. KeyBank’s annual Neighbors Make The Difference Day began in Key’s Alaska market in 1991 and was quickly adopted by the Maine market. I have personally participated in this initiative every year during my eighteen years with Key. This volunteer day has been a cornerstone of our business and culture for decades, demonstrating our commitment to the communities where we live and work.

Why is employee volunteerism important?
Employee volunteerism boosts engagement, talent development, team-building, and enhances corporate reputation. Beyond these benefits, a meaningful volunteer program signals to employees and stakeholders that the health and wellbeing of our business communities are vital and a collective responsibility. Employee involvement fosters a deep sense of community commitment within the company, which is a fundamental principle of KeyBank.

What makes a successful employee volunteer program?
Several elements of our Neighbors Day program contribute to its success and longevity:

Alignment with company culture: KeyBank’s culture is rooted in helping customers and communities thrive. We achieve this through fair and responsible banking services, community lending and investments, philanthropic giving, and employee outreach. Employees are encouraged to engage in their communities through financial literacy programs, nonprofit board service, and our employee giving program. Neighbors Day allows employees to actively demonstrate our commitment to community service.

Management support: KeyBank not only closes branches and provides paid time off for Neighbors Day participation, but leaders at all levels also join in local projects. This involvement underscores the importance of community service at KeyBank to our employees, clients, and the public.

Employee-led initiatives: Although coordinated by a committee at our Cleveland headquarters, Neighbors Day relies on dedicated local teams in each market. In Maine, branch and business teams identify nonprofit partners, organize projects, and lead volunteer efforts. This local leadership distinguishes Neighbors Day from other community investment activities and ensures its ongoing success.

Valued nonprofit partnerships: Working with reputable nonprofit organizations ensures our volunteer efforts address real community needs. Our branch teams build strong relationships with local nonprofits by serving as their bankers, board members, and partners. We believe in these organizations and proudly support their efforts.

A well-executed employee volunteer program is a key element of a comprehensive corporate community support strategy. In 2023, KeyBank and KeyBank Foundation provided $28.7 million in community investments in affordable housing, community development, small business and mortgage lending, and philanthropy in Maine.

Key Private Bank is the marketing name through which KeyBank National Association (KeyBank) provides a range of financial products and solutions. KeyBank, Member FDIC.