Worcester Business Journal Special Editions

8 Worcester Business Journal • Giving Guide 2015 www.wbjournal.com Nonprofit Status 2015 (continued) S ince 2009, Solect Energy in Hopkinton, MA has been helping businesses save money on energy costs, while also preserving the planet. In addition to delivering efficient solar solutions for commercial enterprises, the company is committed to serving the community, both locally and globally. A chance meeting with leadership at the Melanoma Foundation of New England (MFNE) led to a natural partnership with Solect that continues today. "With both of our organizations' affiliation with the sun, we found ours to be a great alignment and synergy," said Kenneth J. Driscoll, Solect founder and CEO. "As a solar energy com- pany, Solect understands how powerful the sun can be and, while we harness the sun's energy for good, we work with the MFNE to educate the public on the dangers of sun exposure." Solect hosts the MFNE's official Boston Marathon running team, Running for Cover, and also partners with them on multiple other fundraising events. In 2013, Solect donated an 11.75 kW solar photo- voltaic (PV) energy system to the Michael Lisnow Respite Center in Hopkinton. "The Respite Center, which supports individuals with disabilities and their families, relies heavily on donations to serve its clients. The 50-panel system offsets up to 30 percent of the Center's electricity costs each month and saves the Center more than $2,500 in annual electricity costs," said Driscoll. Solect also donated a solar energy system to the Hopkinton Center for the Arts, which will help the organization realize a savings of nearly $10,000 per year in elec- trical costs and upwards of $200,000 over the 20+-year life of the system. "Both of the organizations are local and offer important services and support to the commu- nity," Driscoll pointed out. "As a local business, we feel it is our responsibility to support the organizations that support our community. We support each other – it's a good cycle of giving." Not only does Solect partner with and assist local non-profit organizations, but the company also donates equipment, time and manpower to international charities. In September 2014, two Solect employees traveled to Haiti to build and install a solar system on the Be Like Brit Orphanage, which was constructed to fulfill the dream of 19-year old Britney Gengel of Rutland who died in the devastating earthquake of 2010. Solect also donated the solar panels for the project. Many of Solect's employees volunteer their time with the organizations the company supports. Driscoll said, "We support, encourage and enable them to do so, whether it's through participating in fundraising races, or volunteering to work at a char- ity event. Solect employees take initiative to make a difference and volunteer their time, talent and trea- sure." Committed to community involvement, Solect understands the financial chal- lenges non-profit organizations face. "Solect works with non-profit organizations to provide no-cost solar solutions that help significantly reduce their energy costs. This allows organizations to deploy their savings and capital in areas of their business that directly support their mission," Driscoll said. "We value the mission-driven work of non-profits and, of course, we want to support the local economy by helping local businesses as well. It's about being a good neighbor and community member." n SOLECT ENERGY Powering Local Non-Profits S ince SpencerBANK first opened its doors in 1871, it's been part of the bank's mission and culture to make a difference. "Our future depends on healthy, vibrant communities," said K. Michael Robbins, president & CEO of SpencerBANK. "It's vital for us to pledge sup- port not only with monetary donations, but with sponsorships and volunteering to have a positive impact on our neighborhoods." Each year, SpencerBANK supports many non-profit organizations that focus pri- marily on financial development programs, community renewal efforts and assisting the needy. The bank also supports the arts, education and essential health and human services. "Our goal, in the end, is to make the community a better place to live and work," said Robbins. "It's a win-win for everybody." Each year, SpencerBANK provides a mix of dona- tions, both large and small, which collectively have a positive impact and are an investment in the com- munity. For example, SpencerBANK supports many scholarship programs and this year, one of the larger donations was a three-year pledge to the Worcester State Foundation. The money will go toward the Foundation's annual scholarship program to help students overcome financial barriers to succeed in their studies, graduate, and fulfill their dreams. "This is a perfect example of how SpencerBANK makes a real difference in the community," said Robbins. "From our local branches to our corporate level, SpencerBANK is a compassionate partner." SpencerBANK also donates to local food pantries and holds branch-wide food drives to provide the needy with nutritious meals. "We always try to increase aware- ness of the need to help feed the hungry in our own backyard," said Robbins. Another SpencerBANK donation was a large, 14-acre piece of land in Sturbridge that was given to Habitat for Humanity¬ of MetroWest/Greater Worcester. The orga- nization's mission is to build simple, decent, affordable homes for low-income fami- lies. "It was a privilege to partner with such an outstanding organization to help provide families in need with a warm, safe place to live," said Robbins. SpencerBANK recognizes the importance of strong community involvement among its employees, as well. Many volunteer their time with local organizations, serve on boards and participate in charity events. Throughout each year, SpencerBANK also holds many internal drives to raise money for various organizations. Employees wear apparel that is relative to the cause in exchange for a donation for that organization. "There are many organizations trying to better the lives of others and when the opportunity arises to raise awareness, our employees are always willing to team up and help those in need," said Robbins. A unique symbol of SpencerBANK's commitment was the building of a community room as part of the restoration of the Fire, Alarm & Telegraph Building, the Bank's newest branch. This community room provides a plethora of positive benefits to many non-profit orga- nizations that promote the public use, preservation and stewardship of Elm Park. SpencerBANK employees have close ties within the community and connect with individuals, business owners and local leaders who are also interested in contribut- ing to prosperity. "One key element is that we know our customers—and likewise, our customers know us—which fosters greater community loyalty," said Robbins. "Which is always good for everybody." n SpencerBANK A Long Tradition of Making a Difference

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