Digging in: LI bank employees build gardens for local charity

Six employees from a local bank spent a recent morning helping to make fresh produce available for a community living space on Long Island.

The project is the fruit of the “EverBank Builds” program, which works to promote financial and community development. The volunteers from EverBank built three new garden beds and cleaned out existing beds at the home owned and operated by Options for Community Living, a nonprofit serving individuals facing chronic illnesses and disabilities, who often come from challenging circumstances.

“The residents are always seeking new ways to stay active. These garden beds are a way forthem to do that and allow them to be more social, develop new interests, and give them something to look forward to daily,” said Vanessa Smith, program supervisor at Options. 

The volunteer group returned to plant fruit, vegetables, and herbs, providing the residents with access to fresh and healthy food this season.

“We’re honored to work together and confident we can continue to build on this wonderful long-standing relationship we have started,” said Tori Pappas, AVP, brand partnerships at EverBank. “Our EverBank Builds program stands for a commitment to building the communities around us. EverBank associates nationwide come together with shared dedication and compassion to empower individuals of all ages to attain financial health and build generational equity.”