Charitable Giving

How We Help

We receive hundreds of requests for donations each year. Therefore, the Bank will consider requests for charitable donations that qualify under the following categories:

Animal Safety and Welfare

• Organizations and programs that support the safety and welfare of animals
• Educational programs designed to teach responsible pet ownership

Civic and Cultural

• Programs that promote civic engagement
• Aid to organizations that promote local arts and cultural activities

Education

• Financial management training and education programs
• After-school tutoring and mentoring programs for underserved youth and young adults
• Scholarship programs to educational organizations that support students who require financial assistance
• Job training and vocational programs, including literacy and basic-skills education, for low- to moderate-income adults

Health and Human Care

• Community health and mental health counseling services
• Homeless and crisis shelters and services such as food pantries, clothing banks, etc…
• Aid to associations and societies that advance cures and promote health

Housing and Business Development

• Organizations that aid low-to-moderate income individuals and families in the home buying process
• Organizations that aid small businesses to succeed

Guidelines

• Bank Five Nine’s charitable investments are limited to public, nonprofit charitable organizations and agencies that are exempt from federal taxes under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
• High priority is placed on donations that benefit low- to moderate-income individuals and communities.
• High priority is placed on donations to organizations who have a banking relationship or established volunteer relationship with Bank Five Nine.
• Bank contributions are not generally more than $10,000, however, exceptions can be made for certain situations.
• Increased consideration will be given to entities with low administrative costs, in order to ensure the donated funds are efficiently directed to the parties in need.
• Requests must be submitted by the 15th of each month. Applicants are notified by phone, email or by mail, of action taken on requests within 45 days of application deadline.
• Organizations may only submit one request per calendar year.

Recipient nonprofit organizations must:

• Reside in and serve a community where Bank Five Nine has a physical, retail branch location
• Fit within our charitable giving categories (listed above)
• Demonstrate fiscal and administrative stability
• Operate as an equal opportunity employer (where applicable)
• Be governed by a board of directors (where applicable)

Funding exclusions:

• Organizations without 501(c)(3) status
• Individuals (exceptions may be made by the Committee)
• Fraternal or alumni organizations
• Political Action Committees, political candidates, or causes or organizations attempting to influence legislation
• Requests for the discretionary, non-specific use of an organization
• Requests for operating expenses
• Trips or tours for individuals and groups
• Talent and beauty contests