Citizens Bank has awarded its 2011 Be Inspired Award to Michael Hayes, manager at its South Burlington branch, for his outstanding commitment and dedication to the community. As part of the award, the Citizens Bank Foundation will contribute $2,500 to the charity of Michael’s choice.
“Michael is an extraordinary volunteer and truly enjoys giving back and helping those in need,” said Brigitte Ritchie, vice president of public affairs and community relations for Citizens Bank. “He is dedicated to helping at risk youth and teens, and is a mentor and regular volunteer at Spectrum for Youth and Family Services in downtown Burlington. His “can do” attitude is inspiring not only to the teens he helps support, but also to his colleagues at Citizens Bank.”
Hayes became interested in working with Spectrum when he attended a fundraising dinner called Empty Bowl, to highlight the many programs Spectrum provides for homeless and at risk youth ages 14-21.
The surprise award was presented to Hayes at the Citizens Bank branch in South Burlington yesterday morning as part of Colleague Appreciation Week at Citizens Bank.
“Michael began volunteering at Spectrum by being a mentor to one at-risk youth and he has made a significant impact on the life of this young man,” said Michael Redmond, executive director of Spectrum. “Michael regularly meets with this youth to help provide guidance and advice. This isn’t always an easy role, but he is dedicated to being involved and making a difference.”
Spectrum provides emergency shelter, food, clothing, medical services, outreach program, employment and job-skills training, education, life-skills training, mental health and substance abuse counseling, mentoring, violence intervention programs, juvenile justice, and street outreach.
The Be Inspired Award was created in April 2007 by Citizens Financial Group, Inc. to honor volunteers who perform exemplary service in the communities where Citizens does business. Nominations for the Be Inspired Award are made by colleagues. Awards are given out in each state where Citizens has a presence.
“Because volunteerism is so central to the bank’s core values, many of our colleagues seek out and participate in community service programs throughout the state,” said Joe Carelli, president of Citizens Bank. “Citizens is proud to commemorate all of our colleagues’ tremendous contributions through the act of volunteering.