Stronger Together: Expanding Impact in Sullivan County with Claremont Savings Bank

This past fall, Granite United Way expanded our reach to include Sullivan County. With this new transition, partnerships like the one with Claremont Savings Bank have been critical to ensuring families in the Upper Valley continue to receive the support they need. With deep roots in the region, Claremont Savings Bank understands that a strong community is the foundation for shared success.

“Partnering with organizations like Granite United Way allows us to extend our impact beyond financial services, helping to strengthen local families, schools, and neighborhoods. We believe that when our community thrives, we all thrive, and investing in meaningful partnerships is one of the most powerful ways to make that happen” said David Finnerty, President & CEO of Claremont Savings Bank.

Through a workplace giving campaign, a community-wide coat drive, a food drive, sponsoring Day of Caring and more, Claremont Savings Bank employees have stepped up in meaningful ways. Most recently, Claremont Savings Bank donated $2,500 to support Granite United Way’s Camp Starter Kit project, helping ensure local children have the essentials they need to arrive at summer camp prepared and ready to thrive. These efforts have helped provide warmth, nourishment, and stability to neighbors across the Upper Valley, particularly during times of increased need.

“As part of our ongoing commitment to supporting the communities we serve, our bank recently launched this year’s fundraising campaign with a simple but impactful initiative. Employees are invited to wear jeans each Tuesday in exchange for a $1 donation, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. This “Jeans Day” program has been embraced across the organization, with strong participation reflecting our team’s shared dedication to giving back. It’s a small gesture that adds up quickly, demonstrating how collective efforts—much like our partnership with United Way—can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in our community” said Ashleigh McFarlin, Senior Vice President of Claremont Financial Services.

“For our employees, giving back is part of who we are. Volunteering gives our staff an opportunity to connect directly with neighbors, lend a helping hand, and see the difference they can make firsthand. Personally, it’s rewarding and humbling; professionally, it reinforces our shared sense of purpose and teamwork. These experiences remind us that banking isn’t just about numbers, it’s about people and relationships” said David Finnerty, President & CEO of Claremont Savings Bank.

This partnership reflects a strong alignment in values. Both organizations are committed to strengthening local families, supporting long-term stability, and creating opportunities for individuals and communities to thrive. By working together, Claremont Savings Bank and Granite United Way are helping to build a more resilient, compassionate Upper Valley.

“Our mission is to strengthen the financial well-being of the individuals and businesses we serve while supporting the communities we call home. Granite United Way shares that same vision of improving lives through collaboration, education, and support. By working together, we can create greater stability and opportunity for those in need, aligning with our core values of community, integrity, and service” said David Finnerty, President & CEO of Claremont Savings Bank.

Looking ahead, Claremont Savings Bank is excited by the growing impact of this collaboration and the ripple effect it creates. As the partnership continues to deepen, so does its ability to respond to real needs, reach more neighbors, and create lasting change across the region.

If you or someone you know wants to make an impact in Sullivan County, please contact Katie.Berndsen@graniteuw.org