For Truist, a community-oriented bank, supporting Kennedy Krieger Institute is a natural extension of its mission.
“It’s fulfilling our purpose, which is to inspire and build better lives and communities,” says Conor Sanders, senior vice president and middle market banker for Truist.
For many years, Truist has been the presenting sponsor of Kennedy Krieger’s annual Festival of Trees, the largest holiday-themed festival of its kind on the East Coast, and the Baltimore region’s unofficial kick-off to the holiday season since 1990. Thanks to Truist, the Festival of Trees continues to be a major community event and the Institute’s primary fundraising effort.
“Our commitment helps Kennedy Krieger bring its mission to life, delivering world-renowned care and education to thousands of children a year,” Conor says. Truist employees also volunteer with Kennedy Krieger, decorating trees and wreaths to be sold at the festival, helping with setup, volunteering at the event, and helping pack up all the decorations once it’s over. They also volunteer with the Institute’s annual spring ROAR for Kids fundraiser.
Corporate philanthropy emphasizes and reinforces our commitment to the community.” – Conor Sanders
“Our teammates are so generous with their time and enjoy helping organizations that truly make a difference in the community,” says Alexander Bartlett, senior vice president and middle market banking leader for Truist and a member of the Kennedy Krieger Foundation Board of Directors. “Year after year, Truist teammates reaffirm that commitment by volunteering at Kennedy Krieger events.”
Truist also has a business relationship with Kennedy Krieger, serving as the Institute’s primary bank. “When you take a step back and think about our community, banks are simply a reflection of that community’s success,” Conor explains. “Corporate philanthropy is another way to live out our purpose as a community-serving organization.”