Worcester Business Journal

64 Giving Guide 2026 Worcester Business Journal www.wbjournal.com Webster Five Bank Webster Five Bank 35 Millbury St. Auburn, MA 01501 Phone: 800.696.9401 www.web5.com Year founded: 1868 MISSION STATEMENT We amplify the good in our Communities. SERVICE AREA Central Massachusetts and surrounding regions 2025 GIVING STATS • The Bank gave over $700k in 2025 • Record year for Webster Five Foundation: $286k granted in 2025 • Employees logged over 450 volunteer hours sponsored by the Bank • 90+ organizations supported in 2025 OUR COMMITMENT TO NONPROFITS & CHARITABLE GIVING e Webster Five Foundation is commit- ted to strengthening nonprofit organi- zations across Central Massachusetts by supporting annual campaigns, program development initiatives and emergency funding needs. rough grants ranging from $1,000 to $15,000, the Foundation prioritizes investments in youth services, senior support programs and health and social services. By addressing both im- mediate challenges and long-term goals, the Foundation helps local organizations expand their reach, improve outcomes, and continue delivering vital resources to their communities. Complementing this philanthropic work, Webster Five's Nonprofit Bank- ing Team provides organizations with access to knowledgeable, dedicated banking professionals who understand the unique financial landscape of mis- sion-driven institutions. From managing day-to-day operations to planning for future growth and capital needs, these experienced bankers offer tailored guid- ance and specialized financial solutions. With a deep understanding of nonprofit challenges and opportunities, the team equips organizations with the tools and services necessary to operate efficiently, remain financially stable and confidently take their next steps forward. "As President & CEO of Webster Five, I see what happens when a bank decides whose side it's on. When we back local nonprofits and mission- driven entrepreneurs, we're not writing checks. We're amplifying the good already taking root in our communities. Deposits become heating security, educational opportunity, healthcare that reaches real families. We don't just transact; we listen, partner, and reinvest where our neighbors live and work. Nonprofit banking puts capital behind purpose and keeps dollars circulating close to home. That's not charity. It's the belief that when our communities are stronger, everyone is better off." - Brian Westerlind, President & CEO Brian Westerlind President & CEO Stephen Charniak Charniak Insurance Agency, Inc. Board Chair RECENT IMPACTS THROUGH CAPITAL CAMPAIGN GIVING As a financial partner to many mis- sion-driven organizations, we know firsthand how capital campaigns empower nonprofits to think bigger and plan with confidence. ey allow nonprofits to align donor enthusiasm with long-term strategic goals, ensuring that funding is not only secured, but deployed in a way that creates lasting impact. With defined timelines, lead- ership commitments, and measurable outcomes, capital campaigns foster accountability and inspire broader community participation. We're committed to supporting the campaigns that strengthen our local community. at's why we pledged $100,000 toward the development and ongoing upkeep of a YMCA Youth Innovation & Learning Development Hub at the Greendale YMCA—creat- ing an enhanced space where kids can learn, play, and grow. In addition, we've committed $100,000 to the Central Mass Community Housing Alliance to help fund the construction of a new Day Resource Center for community members experiencing homelessness. We're proud to support organizations as they leverage capital campaign gis to strengthen infrastructure and expand reach. When nonprofits can plan boldly, communities benefit—through improved access, stronger services and opportunities that might otherwise remain out of reach. HOW WE SUPPORT NONPROFITS Our commitment to strengthening the communities we serve is at the heart of everything we do. As a community bank, we believe meaningful impact begins with intentional giving—sup- porting local organizations, nonprofits and initiatives that help our neighbors thrive. rough the combined efforts of the Bank and our Foundation, we proud- ly invest in programs that promote economic opportunity, education, and community well-being. In 2025, Web- ster Five gave over $700k to initiatives making a tangible difference in Central Mass and beyond. ese contributions reflect our con- tinued commitment to reinvesting in the communities we serve and ensur- ing long-term, sustainable impact. By directing resources toward local needs and opportunities, we aim to strengthen economic vitality, expand access, and support the organizations that make our communities more resilient. OUR EMPLOYEE VOLUNTEERISM Our employees contribute their time and talents to strengthen our com- munities, and we support these efforts because we believe this work truly mat- ters. We actively encourage engagement by sponsoring volunteer hours at events sponsored by the Bank and offering Volunteer Time Off (VTO), providing employees with paid time to contribute to causes they are passionate about. In 2025, our team members supported more than 90 organizations, contrib- uting over 450 hours to programs that help our communities thrive. In addi- tion to giving their time, our employees also contribute financially to nonprofit organizations, donating more than $37,000 to United Way in 2025 in sup- port of critical community initiatives. From financial education workshops to local nonprofit partnerships, we create both organized volunteer opportunities and flexible options for individual involvement. By recognizing and supporting these contributions, we empower our employees to make a meaningful impact while fostering a culture rooted in service, collaboration, and shared responsibility. rough these efforts, we strengthen not only our communities but also our com- mitment to being a purpose-driven organization. Brian Westerlind, President & CEO Stephen Charniak, Chairman Michael Jalbert, Vice Chairman Jennifer Nickerson, Secretary BOARD MEMBERS Jane Bania Benjamin Craver Donald Doyle Tracy LeMaire Donald Maloney, Jr. Paul Martland Robert McKenna Eric Rosen Andrew Sylvia

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