The Giving Tree: A Timeless Holiday Tradition

Sharing* Caring* Giving

The Giving Tree: A Timeless Holiday Tradition

Grace Giambanco writes-

Back in 1994, Rockport National Bank had an unusual fundraiser that sparked a great response from customers and employees alike, wishes were being granted through two “Bless the Beast and Children” wish trees. The trees were decorated with little candy canes that each had a wish from a Rockport child or a request for food or toys for a pet at the Cape Ann Animal Aid shelter in Gloucester.  Then, in 1995 the bank sponsored a campaign to help 12 local families in need during the holiday season. The endeavor was so successful that the next year an effort began during the holiday season to provide socks, hats and mittens to the needy children of Rockport, and that was the beginning of what has grown to become The Giving Tree.  

This is a special tradition that has now expanded beyond its original goal and grown into a project that distributes gifts, clothes, toys, food, and basic necessities. Last year, hundreds of families, individuals, elderly and children in the communities of Rockport & Gloucester anonymously received gifts.  This is a true testament to the goodwill and undeniable spirit of generosity of our customers and the residents of Cape Ann.

The simplicity and home-grown nature of The Giving Tree has made it a vibrant tradition during the festive holiday season on Cape Ann.  The project begins with the collection of wish lists from local participating churches, non-profit organizations, and the elderly; anonymity is an important requirement.  The Rockport National Bank “elves” cut out red candy canes and label each one with a wish.  The day after Thanksgiving, customers can begin to take the candy canes off the trees in order to fulfill those wishes. 

Rockport National Bank is proud to once again sponsor The Giving Tree. Anyone can participate………just stop by the Rockport National Bank location nearest you and select a candy cane gift tag from The Giving Tree.  Return the wrapped gift along with the original gift tag by Wednesday, December 15th.  Your gift will be anonymously distributed to the appropriate organization and rest assured your generosity will be deeply appreciated.

We thank you for your kindness in making this season brighter for so many families and children in need. 

Rockport National Bank Branches:  16 Main Street, Rockport * 37 King Street, Rockport

                            4 Parker Street, Gloucester

RNB Annual Giving Tree

Rockport National Bank Contributes $10,000 to Newell Stadium

Grace Giambanco writes-

Rockport National Bank is proud to support the efforts of the Gloucester Fishermen Athletic Association with a donation of $10,000 toward the renovation of Newell Stadium.

“Rockport National Bank has been a long time supporter of the GFAA, whether it be as a sponsor of the Triathlon or sign advertising along the fields.  To date, the $10,000 from Rockport National Bank is the largest corporate donation to the Newell Renovation Fund”, states Tim Philpott, of the GFAA.

Rockport National Bank has been committed to the Cape Ann community since 1851.  The Bank has three full service locations in Gloucester and Rockport.  For additional information visit their website at www.RockportNational.com.

Thanks!

Folks in Photo:

Left to Right:

Mike Carrigan, GFAA; Tim Philpott, GFAA; Mike Luster, Rockport National Bank & Peter Anderson, Rockport National Bank

Newell Stadium 2010

Happy Cinco de Mayo!Things to do today!

Chamber’s Spring Fling

Cape Ann Chamber Businesswomen will host this year’s Spring Fling on Tuesday, May 5, 5 to 7:30 p.m., at Latitude 43, 25 Rogers St. Terri Trespicio, senior editor at Martha Stewart’s “Body & Soul” magazine, will present “Take Back the Reins: Simple and Surprising Ways to Stay Balanced and Whole When Times Are Tough.” Trespicio also hosts a daily radio program called “Whole Living.” In collaboration with seArts Wearable Arts group, attendees will have an opportunity to wear — and possibly buy — accessories made by local artists. Sponsored by Cape Ann Savings Bank Trust Department, Rockport National Bank and TD Banknorth, the event will feature a Cinco de Mayo supper of quesadillas, nachos and salads. Cost is $25 per person. A cash bar will be available. Chamber members and nonmembers are welcome. For reservations, call 978-283-1601 or e-mail info@capeannchamber.com.

Spaghetti dinner

A spaghetti dinner fundraiser to benefit the Gloucester High School girls softball program will take place Tuesday, May 5, 5 to 7 p.m., at The Fish Shack restaurant in Rockport. Cost is $8 for adults, $5 for children and seniors, with a $25 family cap. For more information, call Anthony Saputo at 978-283-6970.

seaport-grille