AUGUSTA, Maine - On July 25, 2013, Skowhegan Savings Bank (SSB) capped the eventful grand opening celebration of its new Augusta branch by announcing it had won the "Corporate Above and Beyond Award," a national honor bestowed by the non-profit organization Jobs For America's Graduates. The annual award is given to one business in the country, in recognition of its support to students who face barriers to graduation. The bank has been a loyal, active supporter of the organization's Maine affiliate, Jobs For Maine's Graduates (JMG), embracing its mission of helping local high school students overcome challenges and reach their full potential.

"Skowhegan Savings Bank gets deeply involved," shares Craig Larrabee, President and CEO of JMG, who presented the award. "They care about the interests and the needs of our students in the state of Maine. They're freeing up their people's time to come into the classroom. They are a true community partner."

This growing partnership resulted in the first-ever financial literacy fair in Somerset County, developed and hosted by JMG and SSB. The bank's funding support also goes directly to JMG's financial literacy programs, which help hundreds of local high school students learn financial skills that will help them navigate many of the obstacles of adulthood.

Craig Larrabee (left), President and CEO of Jobs for Maine's Graduates, presents the "Corporate Above and Beyond" award to Karen Hart, AVP/Branch Manager, Skowhegan Savings Bank, and John Witherspoon, President and CEO, Skowhegan Savings Bank.