There is no doubt that Arkansas’ nonprofit organizations have experienced immense challenges to meet increased demand for food, shelter and childcare services, to name a few, following the impact of the coronavirus. In addition to increased need, volunteering rates hit a record-low in 2020 as in-person activities were restricted. However, despite these challenges, Arkansans have also demonstrated how strong and resilient we are by finding new ways to reach out to one another, support our local organizations and help those in need.
While in-person and group volunteer efforts were paused, Bank of America found unique ways for our employees to contribute and give back to our community. In these unprecedented times, many are feeling stress in all aspects of their lives, and that includes their financial lives. Bank of America’s Better Money Habits Champion volunteers have continued to teach virtual financial literacy classes. Our aim with Better Money Habits, Bank of America’s free financial education platform, is to actively listen to people’s concerns and empower them with tailored financial resources, guidance and experiences that can help them identify and achieve their goals.
Earlier this year, we partnered with El Zócalo to hold a virtual workshop teaching community members how to save, budget and set financial goals. As part of its mission, El Zócalo helps immigrant families gain financial stability and prosperity.
Also, this spring, our team members supported Junior Achievement of Arkansas’ virtual 40.1K Race for Financial Fitness, with Better Money Habits Champion volunteers delivering financial education to the public in February, March and April. And just last week, our team members participated in a virtual trivia bowl benefitting JA. A long-time bank partner, Junior Achievement seeks to inspire and prepare Arkansas’ young people to succeed in a global economy.
It is community support like this that helps Arkansas’ nonprofit organizations fulfill their missions. As a community, we have a role to step up and get involved.
This April, we celebrated National Volunteer Month by recognizing the importance of volunteerism and giving back to our communities. At Bank of America, one of the ways we can play a role in helping to address key issues fundamental to economic mobility and social progress is by connecting our employees to meaningful opportunities through local partnerships and implementing policies to drive volunteerism. Fostering a strong culture of employee giving and providing the flexibility and resources our employees need is important to us, including paid time off to volunteer. Through these efforts and our employees’ passion for offering their time and expertise, we are able to connect with our partners and engage with our communities to make a lasting and shared impact.
In Arkansas, together we can continue to contribute and help organizations like El Zócalo and Junior Achievement as they help to improve lives and strengthen our communities. I encourage everyone to support a cause they are passionate about to raise awareness, foster connectivity and advocate for community engagement. We can make a difference and help to ensure a brighter future for all Arkansans.
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