As part of its commitment to responsible growth, Bank of America has invested a total of $500,000 across Greater Augusta /Aiken this year through philanthropic grants, loans, etc. helping to strengthen the local economy. The support is helping to drive economic mobility and social progress, with a particular focus on advancing racial and ethnic equality. Specifically, Bank of America’s local giving this year helped to support workforce and education initiatives, entrepreneurship, health and housing.

For instance, the bank provided a $100,000 grant to First Step Staffing, a nonprofit staffing firm, that opened a new location in Augusta in early October. Founded in Atlanta in 2007, First Step Staffing provides immediate employment to individuals at-risk of homelessness, as well as transportation to and from work and connection to other resources and services to retain stable housing.

This year, the bank partnered with Augusta National Golf Club to support institutional advancement and long-term success at Paine College. Bank of America expanded its Leader on Loan program with Dr. Tiffani Stewart beginning her year-long, fulltime role as interim Assistant to the President with Paine College in August. In addition, Paine College has joined the Way Forward Initiative, a multiyear collaboration between education firm EAB and Bank of America to support HBCUs. Their inclusion in the program is made possible through funding provided by Augusta National Golf Club as part of its commitment to Paine College and the City of Augusta.

Bank of America has provided more than $4.5M in support to the Greater Augusta-Aiken community since 2019. In addition to philanthropic capital, the company also donated 100,000 Masks, 232 hand sanitizer cases and 64, gloves to the Greater Augusta-Aiken community this year.

“Nonprofits are on the front lines of addressing complex societal challenges – understanding the needs and obstacles Augusta faces, while developing the solutions and services to promote economic advancement,” said Ora Parish, president, Bank of America Greater Augusta / Aiken. “As Augusta area individuals and families continue to work toward a better future, Bank of America will continue to deploy capital and resources to help remove barriers to economic success and build a more sustainable community.”

This year’s efforts reflect the bank’s commitment to addressing critical issues and long-term gaps by partnering with local leaders and organizations to support diverse and women entrepreneurs, build job skills, support basic needs and create opportunities to help people succeed today and in the future.