Campaign Awards
Excellence--African-American Leadership Initiative
Mechanics and Farmers Bank
At the turn of the twentieth century, an accomplished group of African American leaders in our community dreamed of founding an African American owned bank in Durham – and through hard work and dedication, their dream became Mechanics and Farmers Bank. One hundred years later, employees at Mechanics and Farmers Bank are still
dedicated, involved, and unfaltering in their support of the local African American community.
In 1999 the Triangle United Way founded the African American Leadership Initiative (AALI) to help engage, connect, and recognize philanthropic support from African American leaders across Durham, Orange, and Wake Counties. Mechanics and Farmers employees have been involved in AALI ever since, and the number of supporters within
the company continues to grow. Thanks to the dedication and passion of President and CEO, Kim Saunders, and Campaign Leader, Soberina Traywick, M&F had eleven AALI members contributing over $14,000 to United Way Partner Agencies and local nonprofits in the 2007 campaign. Furthermore, Mechanics and Farmers also supports employee Queron Smith in his role as co-Chair of the Triangle-wide African American Leadership Initiative. The bank’s mission is a commitment to promoting personal and community development, and they are leading by example every day.
Best Practices:
• Strong CEO Support and Involvement
• Multiple Kickoff Events
• Multiple Partner Agency Speakers
• Emphasis on Leadership Giving