Jeans program raises $44,000 for local charities

FARMINGTON - “Fund-Raising Fridays” have become more than a pleasant diversion for employees at Franklin Savings Bank. Wearing blue jeans on Fridays have become a major fund-raiser. Bank employees just marked their 10th year with the program with a total $44,000 raised, $2 at a time.

“Little bits certainly add up,” said Dee LaPlant, vice president, Customer Service.

“Our employees love it. When they are comfortable, they are sometimes more productive, particularly on Fridays, which tend to be very busy for us. They are excited to wear the jeans while supporting these good causes,” said LaPlant. “Our customers love it too. They know that we’re raising money and are very supportive. They ask what the cause is and sometimes will add a donation of their own to the jar.”

In the program, participating employees voluntarily contribute $2 each Friday for the privilege to wear blue jeans. Each year, the program raises funds for eight local charities decided by an employee vote the previous November. Funds for national charities are tied to local projects.

“I’m always impressed by the generosity of our employees, not only with their contributions of money but the hundreds of hours of personal time they donate to local charity efforts,” said Shelley Deane, senior vice president, Human Resources and Administration. “It’s infectious. Employee spouses and children also get involved and we’re watching as the next generation of volunteers learn about giving of themselves.”

Over the decade, the employees have donated: $6,359 to the Relay for Life, $5,637 to the Alzheimer's Association of Maine, $4,025 to organizations that buy Christmas presents for the poor (Operation Santa, Santa's Helpers), $3,993 to local animal shelters, $3,620 to SeniorsPlus, $3,148 to the March of Dimes, $3,144 to the American Heart Association, $2,989 to sponsor families in need for the holidays, $2,578 to local food pantries, $1,997 to the Franklin County Children's Task Force, $1,765 to the United Way, $1,346 to the Autism Society of Maine and $1,313 to Keep ME Warm. Other beneficiaries include Literacy Volunteers, the American Red Cross, the Salvation Army and Wounded Warrior Project.