Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 982 is the July winner of a $2,500 donation from Community Bank of Santa Maria’s as part of the bank’s pledge to give $25,000 to local nonprofits in honor of its 25th Anniversary.

Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 982 was selected through a random draw from the nominations received from bank customers and will receive a $2,500 donation, said Janet Silveria, the bank’s president/CEO.

The bank will continue drawing one nonprofit each month, from March through December, awarding a total of $25,000 to organizations serving the Santa Maria Valley,

All nominations remain eligible for future drawings and will be accepted through Dec. 31. 

Involving customers in the anniversary celebration was an important part of the campaign’s design, Silveria said.

“Our customers have supported us for 25 years, so we wanted them to have a special role in how we celebrate this milestone,” she said.

“By nominating organizations that are important to them, our customers are helping direct resources to nonprofits that help make the Santa Maria Valley such a special place to live and work. And by extension, we are also thanking the entire community for their support,” Silveria said.

In addition to its 25th anniversary giving campaign, Community Bank of Santa Maria held its Annual Anniversary Community Shred Event in March.

“This event occurs in our anniversary month every year and continues to be one of our favorite ways to serve the community. The positive feedback we receive from participants is amazing,” Silveria said.

“It’s rewarding to offer a service that helps protect personal information while also contributing to local recycling efforts.” she said.

This year’s event shredded and recycled 44,568 pounds of paper, saving an estimated 380 trees.

Community Bank of Santa Maria is a wholly owned subsidiary of Community Bancorp of Santa Maria. For more, visit www.yourcbsm.com.