Bangor Savings Bank boosts Children’s Art Program

By Gloria Austin
Staff Writer
    The Southern Aroostook Cultural Arts Project has received a $2,000 grant from the Bangor Savings Bank Foundation to provide a free non-academic, community-based art experience for children and youth in the southern Aroostook area.
    SACAP serves southern Aroostook, Washington and northern Penobscot counties.
    The Children’s Art Program will be held at the Houlton Recreational Department, starting Tuesday, Nov. 13 from 3-4:30 p.m.
Pioneer Times photograph/Gloria Austin
DONATION — The Southern Aroostook Cultural Arts Project has received a $2,000 grant from the Bangor Savings Bank Foundation. Accepting the check is Robert Cowperthwaite, center, president of SACAP, with Brenda Richards, left, bank assistant branch manager and Chris Nickerson, vice president and regional market manager.
    “We are very excited to be working with SACAP on this project,” said Marie Carmichael, director of the Houlton Recreational Department. “This is a much needed activity for the youngsters, as it gives them the chance to express themselves creatively and it exposes them to the many opportunities the arts have to offer.”
    Bangor Savings Bank Foundation awarded 15 grants totaling $60,500 to statewide community organizations. Grants were given to nonprofit programs providing health and wellness, education, immigration, land conservation and historical preservation services.
    “The Bangor Savings Bank Foundation’s mission is to improve Maine’s regional and statewide economy and the quality of life for citizens in communities all over the state,” said Stacey Haskell, assistant vice president and community relations manager of Bangor Savings Bank. “We are pleased for the latest Foundation grant recipients and we are proud to support the important work they do.”
    SACAP is bringing together varied art activities for youth in a coordinated year-long art program called the “Seasons of Art.” The children will learn about a variety of art elements and venues.
    “The children will be able to meet and work with adult artists,” said SACAP President Robert Cowperthwaite, “practicing with art activities and tools, while building their bond with businesses and other community organizations, which are encouraging and supporting their participation.”
    SACAP’s approach since 1999 has been to encourage life-long learning through exposure to art activities and exhibits.
    “A flourishing cultural environment boosts the economy and supports a broad range of business and educational opportunities,” said Cowperthwaite. “The volunteer efforts are the primary motivation and sustaining force behind all our accomplishments.”
    SACAP’s long-term goal/vision is to help provide a vibrant, inclusive cultural community, added Cowperthwaite.
    Bangor Savings Bank’s annual Community Matters More grant-making program considers applications from eligible organizations for grants ranging from $2,000 to $50,000. Applications are reviewed quarterly and must be received by April 1, July 1, Oct. 1 and Jan. 1.
    For more information on the grant process and application,  visit www.bangor.com or call 877-226-4671.