Community Involvement

Project We Care 2024

Project We Care, Champlain National Bank’s annual holiday giving initiative, was a success! We collected toys for needy children, gifts for residents of local nursing homes, and warm clothing and toiletries to donate to local charities. These employee-led projects team up with local agencies to make sure everyone in the North Country has a Merry Christmas.

Westport Branch: Meagon Perry, Michelle McGuire, Rosann Fields

Willsboro Branch: April Marble, Michelle Cross, Jenni Sowizdrzal (Christmas for Kids), Tina Gardner (Christmas for Kids)

Lake Placid Branch: Philip Koenig, Ralitsa Livermore, Jillian Robinson

Elizabethtown Branch: Alan Jones (ACAP), Kathy Robertson (ACAP), Lena Robetoy

Keene Branch: Alison Jones, Richard Rothstein (Keene Valley Neighborhood House)

Champlain Branch

Holiday Sweaters Employee Fundraising Day 2024

To help raise money and awareness for Project We Care, any employee who donated to their branch’s Project was able to wear their finest Christmas sweater to work! Even our Board Members got in on the fun and wore Christmas sweaters to the December meeting.

Board of Directors: Sarah Schmidt, Steven Cacchio, Darlene Mirrer, Kevin Brady, Deena McCullough with Zoom, Bill Kissel, Lisa Roberts, Vinny McClelland, Rod Giltz

Willsboro Branch: Michelle Cross, Andrea Robare, Tracy LaBombard, Erica Cain, Dorene Dixon, Cheryl Estus, Ashley Lee, April Marble, Marilyn Strong

Champlain Branch: Karen Montbriand, Brittany Faubert

Downtown Plattsburgh Branch: Tammy St. Denis, Kyle McCarthy, Cory Ryan, Avery Ellis, Lori Hebert, Lisa Roberts, Todd Hambleton, Emily Eckert, Laurie Kelsh

Westport Branch: Rosann Fields, Michelle McGuire, Meagon Perry

Crown Point Branch: Mykenzie Woods, Macie Peer, Autumn Fountain

Plattsburgh Branch: Logan Miner, Kathrine Murphy, Katherine Towne

Elizabethtown Branch: Courtney Christian, Juslyn Murphy, Lena Robetoy, Abigail Buck

Keene Branch: Melissa LaMotte, Alison Jones

Board of Directors: Haydn Cole, Alice Cole, Jay Winthrop, Matt Boire

Halloween Client Appreciation Day 2024

We gave out candy to kids who stopped by our branches to trick-or-treat and had refueling snacks ready to go for their parents and our clients!

Crown Point Branch: Macie Peer, Autumn Fountain

Elizabethtown Branch: Courtney Christian, Juslyn Murphy, Lena Robetoy, Abigail Buck

Champlain Branch: Kelly Blondo

Willsboro Branch: Jayne Willard, Michelle Cross, April Marble, Cheryl Estus

Downtown Plattsburgh Branch: Tammy St. Denis, Cory Ryan, Todd Hambleton, Lori Hebert, Avery Ellis, Kyle McCarthy, Laurie Kelsh

Keene Branch: Carol Martin, Dylan Savage

Trick-or-Treating

We got out into the community and participated in some local trick-or-treating events for kids!

Kelly Blondo

United Way Pacesetter 2024

Champlain National Bank employees were proud to set the tone for the 2025 United Way of the Adirondack Region’s Annual Campaign as a Pacesetter organization with a $10,000 donation.

Downtown Plattsburgh Branch: Rod Giltz, Amanda Brewer, Vinny McClelland, Kyle McCarthy, Taylor Sousa, Avery Ellis, Brian Ellsworth, Cory Ryan, Laurie Kelsh, Todd Hambleton, Lori Hebert, Tammy St. Denis

Senior Financial Exploitation Awareness Seminar

A group of Champlain National Bank employees spent the day teaching seniors the things they can do to avoid losing money to a scammer as part of the Essex County Office for the Aging’s Senior Financial Exploitation Awareness Seminar.

Medara Sherman

Lena Robetoy

Jackie Hallock, Medara Sherman, Valarie Favaro

School Supplies Donations 2024

The Bank donated $2,000 worth of school supplies to area schools, making sure that everyone has what they need to be successful during the 2024 – 2025 school year!

Westport Branch: Michelle McGuire, Lee Kyler (Boquet Valley Elementary School)

Saranac Lake Branch: Erika Bezio (Saranac Lake Central School), Maja Giambalvo, Rebecca Miner

Downtown Plattsburgh Branch: Brian Ellsworth, Tracie McCarthy (Plattsburgh Momot Elementary School)

Champlain Branch: Kelly Blondo, Wade Bush (Mooers Elementary School)

Lake Placid Branch: Michele Kulina and Sonja Franklin (Lake Placid Elementary School), Ralitsa Livermore

Plattsburgh Branch: Brian Ellsworth, Ian Turner (Plattsburgh High School)

Crown Point Branch: Tara Celotti (Crown Point Central School), Autumn Flora

Willsboro Branch: Justin Gardner (Willsboro Central School), Lena Robetoy

Westport-Wadhams Day

We had a great time celebrating the Westport community and provided fun activities for kids including coloring, origami lessons with fake money, and pictures with Mr. Bankus.

Michelle McGuire

North Country Chamber Business Expo 2024

Champlain National Bank showed our support for the North Country Chamber of Commerce by attending the 2024 Business Expo in Plattsburgh. It was a great opportunity to showcase our latest banking products and services and meet local business leaders from a wide variety of industries.

Lori Hebert, Taylor Sousa

Crown Point Memorial Day Parade 2024

Mr. Bankus made an appearance in the Crown Point Memorial Day Parade!

Autumn Flora, Mykenzie Woods Sherman

Mr. Bankus

Autism Alliance Walk 2024

Champlain National Bank employees volunteered at the 2024 Autism Alliance Walk, which raised money to enhance the lives of people with autism and their families and provides a fun family-friendly Spring event for the community.

Andrea Robare, Maghan MacDougal, Brian Ellsworth, Avery Ellis, Karen Ashline, Emily Eckert, Chewbacca, Rebecca Miller

Elizabethtown Community Hospital’s Doc Lopez Run 2024

Employees volunteered at the 2024 Doc Lopez Run to benefit Elizabethtown Community Hospital by staffing the Champlain National Bank sponsored water station. We are proud to support Elizabethtown Community Hospital and all the good work they do.

Lena Robetoy, Melissa LaMotte, Ashlee LaPier

Autism Employee Fundraising Day 2024

Champlain National Bank employees wore blue (including blue jeans) in honor of April being Autism Acceptance Month. Employees volunteer their time every year at the Autism Alliance of Northeastern New York’s Autism Walk, which the Bank is proud to sponsor.

Elizabethtown Branch: Ashlee LaPier, Lena Robetoy, Juslyn Murphy, Melissa LaMotte, Courtney Christian

Keene Branch: Carol Martin, Melanie Porter

Plattsburgh Branch: Amanda Brewer, Desiree Maze, Kathrine Murphy, Erin Sartwell, Medara Sherman, Katherine Towne, Gregory Towne, Rebecca Miller, Ashley Juhasz, Brian Ellsworth, Darlene Mirrer

Lake Placid Branch: Philip Koenig, Ralitsa Livermore, Jonathan Swinyer

Champlain Branch: Karen Montbriand, Kelly Blondo

Fraud Prevention Presentation

We’re getting the word out on the latest scams we’re seeing in the North Country. Find out how fraudsters will try to trick you into sending them money and the things they say and do that should tip you off to a scam.

Children’s Miracle Network Bowl-A-Thon 2024

Champlain National Bank sponsored the 7th Annual Children’s Miracle Network Bowl-A-Thon, and our employees showed up in force to bowl and raise money for the University of Vermont Children’s Hospital.

Jillian Robinson, Rebecca Miner, Jonathan Swinyer, Kelly Blondo, Brian Ellsworth, Avery Ellis, Ashley Juhasz

Solar Eclipse Welcome Center

Champlain National Bank’s very own Sunny helped welcome the thousands of visitors to the area for the Solar Eclipse. We had a great time handing out Eclipse Glasses, treats, water, and balloons to everyone who stopped by our welcome tent.

Plattsburgh Branch: Amanda Brewer, Darlene Mirrer, Desiree Maze, Katherine Towne, Kathrine Murphy

Identifying and Avoiding Scams Presentation

Our Security Officer, Medara Sherman, spoke to a group of seniors in Reber about the uptick in recent scams, and showed them how to avoid becoming a victim of fraud.

Teddy Bear Giveaway 2024

10 lucky children went home with a custom Vermont Teddy Bear, as part of our effort to spread a little love to the community on Valentine’s Day.

Saranac Lake Branch: Rebecca Miner with Zander Merrill and Dawn Brungard

Champlain Branch: Kelly Blondo with Kaelyn Sample

Crown Point Branch: Macie Peer and Autumn Flora with Audrey Gadway

Willsboro Branch: Michelle Cross with Penny and Julia Starkey

Westport Branch: Londyn Gough

Plattsburgh Branch: Elayna Carroll

Lake Placid Branch: Charlie Montag

Downtown Plattsburgh Branch: Indiana Barber

Elizabethtown Branch: Lexington LaMotte and Tukk Simpson

Keene Branch: Beverly Smith

Wear Red Day 2024

We wore red and raised funds on National Wear Red Day to show our support for the wonderful heart care CVPH provides to the North Country.

Downtown Plattsburgh Branch: Ashley Sorrell, Avery Ellis, Todd Hambleton, Lori Hebert, Emily Eckert, Tammy Gaff, Laurie Kelsh, Cory Ryan, Taylor Sousa

Plattsburgh Branch: Desiree Maze, Kathrine Murphy, Ralitsa Livermore, Katherine Towne, Brian Ellsworth

Lake Placid Branch: Jillian Robinson, Maja Giambalvo, Philip Koenig

Willsboro Branch: Dorene Dixon, Cindy Monty, Jayne Willard, Michelle Cross, April Marble, Amanda Ahrent, Skiler Stafford, Jeannette Donovan

Keene Branch: Carol Martin, Melanie Porter

Saranac Lake Branch: Jonathan Swinyer, Rebecca Miner

North Country Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner 2024

Champlain National Bank President and CEO Steven Cacchio was elected to serve as North Country Chamber of Commerce’s Board Chairman for 2024, and one of his duties was to emcee the Annual Chamber Dinner, which the Bank was also proud to sponsor.

Taylor Sousa, Jackie Hallock, Lisa Roberts, Steven Cacchio, Avery Ellis, Lori Hebert, Emily Eckert

Steven Cacchio

Holiday Sweaters Employee Fundraising Day 2023

We showed off our Christmas spirit to celebrate the amazing accomplishments of another successful Project We Care, which provided hundreds of toys, gifts, and food for families across the North Country and Adirondacks. Our employees donated money, bought gifts, wrapped presents, and delivered everything to charities, making sure everyone has a special holiday this year!

Downtown Plattsburgh Branch: Cory Ryan, Lisa Roberts, Taylor Sousa, Emelin Koss, Brian Ellsworth, Todd Hambleton, Laurie Kelsh, Tammy Gaff

Willsboro Branch: Teresa Cummings, Jeannette Donovan, Toni McCray, Dorene Dixon, Cindy Monty, Jennifer Tedford, Lisa Jaquish, Erica Cain, Dawn LaBarre, Michelle Cross, Ashley Sorrell, Ashley Lee, Skiler Stafford, April Marble, Amanda Ahrent, Marilyn Strong

Saranac Lake Branch: Alexandra Amell, Rebecca Miner

Plattsburgh Branch: Medara Sherman, Katherine Towne, Avery Ellis, Kathrine Murphy, Gregory Towne, Erin Sartwell

Lake Placid Branch: Philip Koenig, Emily Eckert, Carol Martin

Champlain Branch: Kelly Blondo, Brittany Faubert

Westport Branch: Alyssa Carroll, Troy Light

Keene Branch: Alison Jones, Melanie Porter

Crown Point Branch: Autumn Flora, Macie Peer, Rosann Fields

Adirondack Explorer's Taking Stock of Housing Event

Champlain National Bank continues to work alongside local leaders on solutions to the housing crisis in the Adirondacks, including by providing financing for affordable housing projects in the North Country and Adirondacks, and for our support of initiatives that bring awareness and thought leadership to the issues, like being the Lead Sponsor of Adirondack Explorer’s Taking Stock of Housing Event. Two of our Commercial Lenders were also on hand at the event that took place at The Wild Center in Tupper Lake.

Lori Hebert, Lisa Roberts

Halloween Client Appreciation Day 2023

Halloween was a great day to spoil our clients with treats and have some fun!

Willsboro Branch: Jayne Willard, Michelle Cross, April Marble, Amanda Ahrent

Keene Branch: Melanie Porter, Alison Jones

Saranac Lake Branch: Rebecca Miner

Elizabethtown Branch: Lena Robetoy, Juslyn Murphy, Lydia Valachovic, Courtney Christian, Michelle McGuire

Lake Placid Branch: Emily Eckert, Carol Martin, Philip Koenig

Westport Branch: Kurri Westover

Crown Point Branch: Rosann Fields, Autumn Flora, Macie Peer

Champlain Branch: Kelly Blondo

Plattsburgh Branch: Erin Sartwell, Kathrine Murphy

Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2023

Employees and the Bank made donations to Susan G. Komen in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and in remembrance of our friends and colleagues that we’ve lost to the disease, and for those who have faced a breast cancer diagnosis.

Plattsburgh Branch: Kathrine Murphy, Brian Ellsworth, Gregory Towne, Joshua Miner, Darlene Mirrer, Sara Rock

Elizabethtown Branch: Melissa LaMotte, Juslyn Murphy, Lydia Valachovic, Courtney Christian, Michelle McGuire

Downtown Plattsburgh Branch: Emelin Koss, Cindy Caner, Todd Hambleton, Avery Ellis, Cory Ryan, Tammy Gaff

Lake Placid Branch: Lori Hebert, Emily Eckert, Carol Martin

Keene Branch: Alison Jones, Melanie Porter

Willsboro Branch: Cindy Monty, Dawn Labarre, Jeannette Donovan, Teresa Cummings, Ashley Sorrell, Lisa Jaquish, Lena Robetoy, Skiler Stafford, April Marble, Amanda Ahrent

Champlain Branch: Erin Sartwell, Kelly Blondo

Saranac Lake Branch: Alexandra Amell, Rebecca Miner

Crown Point Branch: Macie Peer, Kurri Westover, Autumn Flora

Ticonderoga Area Chamber of Commerce Appreciation Award Recipient

Champlain National Bank was honored to receive an Appreciation Award from the Ticonderoga Area Chamber of Commerce, along with a New York State Senate Citation from Senator Dan Stec, at the Ticonderoga Area Community Appreciation Dinner.

Mark Wright (Ticonderoga Supervisor), Dan Stec (NYS Senator), Autumn Flora, Kurri Westover, Matthew Courtright (TACC)

United Way Pacesetter 2023

Champlain National Bank’s amazing employees donated $10,000 to the United Way of the Adirondacks Pacesetter campaign! We are so proud of our team and the difference each one of them makes in the community. Thanks to the United Way for their fundraising efforts that support their partner agencies, serving a wide variety of needs for the most vulnerable.

Downtown Plattsburgh Branch: Tammy Gaff, Lisa Roberts, Lori Hebert, Todd Hambleton, Avery Ellis, Ralitsa Livermore

Employee Fundraising Day for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

Our employees raised money to benefit St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in honor of the local children who have benefited from their good work. Our branch team in Elizabethtown is pictured here wearing pins from St. Jude to show their support.

Elizabethtown Branch: Lena Robetoy, Juslyn Murphy, Courtney Christian, April Marble

Ticonderoga Area Chamber of Commerce Member Monday 2023

We're proud of our long-term support and membership in the Ticonderoga Area Chamber of Commerce, and annual sponsorship of their Fundraiser Dinner and Auction. We love being featured in their Member Mondays business spotlight too!

Matthew Courtright (TACC), Autumn Flora, Erin Mullen (TACC)

Village of Champlain 150th Birthday Celebration

Our Branch Manager in Champlain, Kelly Blondo, joined the festivities celebrating the Village of Champlain’s sesquicentennial (or 150th birthday) by giving out goodies, and playing a historic coin identification game with people who stopped by the Champlain National Bank table.

Kelly Blondo

Rotary Celebrity Bedrace Regatta

Champlain National Bank retiree (and longtime Rotarian) Tim Kononan represented the Bank at the Plattsburgh Rotary's Celebrity Bedrace Regatta and rode the bed to victory against the other banks there. He may not have won the coveted Golden Bedpan, but he's a celebrity in our book, and it was all to support the wonderful work of the Plattsburgh Rotary.

Tim Kononan

School Supplies Donations for the 2023/2024 School Year

Our employees wanted to make sure that everyone has the tools they'll need to start the school year off right, so chipped in their own money, along with a donation from the bank, to purchase supplies, backpacks, snacks, etc., that were given to our local schools to distribute.

Westport Branch: Kurri Westover, Lee Kyler (Boquet Valley Elementary)

Willsboro Branch: Justin Gardner (Willsboro Central School), Lena Robetoy

Champlain Branch: Kelly Blondo, Wade Bush (Mooers Elementary)

Lake Placid Branch: Emily Eckert, Gabby Gorodetsky

Elizabethtown Branch: Megan Walls (Boquet Valley Central School), Lena Robetoy

Plattsburgh Branch: Jacolyn Utzler (Saranac Elementary), Sara Rock, Makenna Provost (Saranac Elementary)

Animal Shelter Collection Drive 2023

The Bank, along with our employees and clients, donated supplies to our local animal shelters, that were gratefully received, to help feed and care for the homeless pet population. We also donated the best cat toy ever: Catnip Bandit!

Tri-Lakes Humane Society: Emily Eckert, Tori Tanner (Tri-Lakes Humane Society)

North Country SPCA: Kurri Westover, Lena Robetoy, Wendy Beeman Tibbitts (North Country SPCA)

July 4th Parades 2023

It was a busy Independence Day for Champlain National Bank as we participated in parades throughout the region!

Willsboro: Peter Paine Jr.

Westport: Kurri and Eric Westover

North Country Chamber of Commerce Business Expo 2023

We had fun with money at the 2023 North Country Chamber Business Expo! Visitors to our table got to select a collectible coin from our treasure chest that we then helped them to identify and value! We met a few skilled coin collectors and sparked an interest in a few budding numismatists.

Lisa Roberts, Taylor Sousa

Ralitsa Livermore

Crown Point Memorial Day Parade 2023

We were all smiles at the Memorial Day Parade in Crown Point as we handed out money-themed candy with our inflatable piggy bank, Mr. Bankus in tow. Thanks to the Crown Point Memorial Day Celebration Committee for putting on such a fun parade and wonderful weekend of activities.

Autumn and Jae-Lynn Flora, Kurri and Natalia Westover

Kurri Westover, Autumn Flora

Saranac Lake Community Clean Up Downtown Day

The team from Champlain National Bank helped keep Saranac Lake clean and green by picking up trash and sprucing up the downtown corridor as part of the annual Village of Saranac Lake Community Clean Up Downtown Day.

Alexandra Amell, Emily Eckert, Gabrielle Gorodetsky

Autism Alliance Walk and Jean Day 2023

The employees of Champlain National Bank have supported the Autism Alliance of Northeastern NY since its inception and enjoy volunteering their time at the annual Walk. The employees also held a Jean Day and wore blue tops to raise money that was donated to the Autism Alliance.

Brian Ellsworth, Emelin Koss, Andrea Robare, Gabriella Self, Sawyer Burnett, Zachary Towle, Ralitsa Livermore

Brian Ellsworth

Sawyer Burnett, Gabriella Self, Zachary Towle, Ralitsa Livermore

Crown Point Branch: Macie Peer, Rosann Fields, Kurri Westover, Autumn Flora

Willsboro Branch: Amanda Ahrent, Michelle Cross, Lena Robetoy, Jayne Willard

Elizabethtown Branch: Melissa LaMotte, Juslyn Murphy, Courtney Christian, Michelle McGuire

Doc Lopez Run for Health 2023

Our employees spent their Sunday volunteering at the Doc Lopez Run for Health by staffing the Champlain National Bank sponsored water station. The Bank is a long-time sponsor of this event and are proud to support Elizabethtown Community Hospital and all the good work they do.

Kurri Westover, Melissa LaMotte, Lena Robetoy, Troy Light

YRN Bowling Tournament to Benefit North Country Honor Flight

Employees bowled for a cause! We gathered with our friends at Your Realtor Network to bowl in a tournament that benefited the North Country Honor Flight.

Bobby and Erica Cain, Sawyer Burnett, Brian Ellsworth, Zachary Towle, Jim Moscatello, Courtney Christian, Katherine Towne, Cindy Caner, Lisa Jaquish, Jayne Willard, Kari Fisher, Gabby Self, Emily Eckert, Maja Giambalvo, Rebecca Miner, Lena Robetoy, Melissa LaMotte, Darlene Mirrer, Ava and Sara Rock

Kari Fisher, Brian Ellsworth, Zachary Towle, Jim Moscatello, Gabby Self

Lena Robetoy

Ava Rock, Darlene Mirrer

North Country Chamber's St. Patrick's Day Breakfast 2023

Our President and CEO Steven Cacchio appeared on The St. Patty's Day Show hosted by Matt Boire, where he expressed Champlain National Bank's continued support for the North Country Chamber of Commerce. We were proud to sponsor the Chamber's annual (and very fun) St. Patrick's Day Breakfast.

Steven Cacchio, Matt Boire

North Country Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner 2023

We love having the opportunity to celebrate all the wonderful small business owners and businesses in our community! Two of our amazing Business Lenders were on hand to help cheer for all the North Country Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner Honorees. Congratulations to all the winners and to the North Country Chamber for putting on such a special event.

Lisa Roberts, Taylor Sousa

Project We Care 2022

A HUGE thank you to everyone who donated to Champlain National Bank’s Project We Care! With your help, we were able to provide a meaningful Christmas for many of our neighbors, both young and old, to make sure some of the most vulnerable people among us had a special holiday season. We donated toys, food, and warm clothing to many local charities, schools, and food pantries, and heard stories about how your generosity truly made a difference. Thank you to our branch staff for leading the efforts!

Elizabethtown Branch: Courtney Christian, Juslyn Murphy, Brandi Fifield, Lena Robetoy, Cindy Cobb (ACAP), Kathy Robinson (ACAP)

Crown Point Branch: Kurri Westover, Autumn Flora

Downtown Plattsburgh Branch: James Moscatello, Ralitsa Livermore, Laurie Kelsh, Tammy Gaff, Todd Hambleton

Downtown Plattsburgh Branch: Kathleen Sciole (Stafford Middle School), Brian Ellsworth, Ralitsa Livermore

Plattsburgh Branch: Ralitsa Livermore, Brian Ellsworth, Zachary Towle, Layal Nizam, Gregory Towne, Gabriella Self

Plattsburgh Branch: Rory LaPage (Plattsburgh High School), Alan Feazelle (Plattsburgh High School), Brian Ellsworth, Ralitsa Livermore

Westport Branch: Troy Light, Kurri Westover, Michelle McGuire

Willsboro Branch: Michelle Cross, Amanda Ahrent, April Marble

United Way Pacesetter 2022

We are so, so proud to be a long-time United Way Pacesetter, and to announce that our employees are giving a whopping $11,000 to the 2023 campaign! Our team is truly amazing – as is the work of the United Way of the Adirondacks, which we are proud to support.

Plattsburgh Branch: Layal Nizam, Sara Cook, Gregory Towne, Brian Ellsworth, Ralitsa Livermore

Halloween Client Appreciation Day 2022

We have a blast showering our clients with treats and fun for our annual Halloween Client Appreciation Day!

Willsboro Branch: Michelle Cross, Amanda Ahrent, Jayne Willard

Elizabethtown Branch: Brandi Fifield, Courtney Christian, Melissa LaMotte, Juslyn Murphy, Lena Robetoy

Plattsburgh Branch: Gabriella Self, Layal Nizam

Downtown Plattsburgh Branch: James Moscatello, Brian Ellsworth, Tammy Gaff

Crown Point Branch: Jaime Whitcomb, Rosann Fields, Autumn Flora

Lake Placid Branch: Emily Eckert, Heather McGinnis, Danielle Roy

Keene Branch

Lake Placid Branch

Donation to ICBA Foundation Disaster Relief Program

We’re showing our support for the people who work for the small community banks in Florida with a gift of $1,000 to the ICBA (Independent Community Bankers of America) Foundation Disaster Relief Program. This money will be given directly to employees and their families who lost their lives and property during Hurricane Ian. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this storm.

Fun at the Mountain Lake PBS Jacques Pepin Gala

Champlain National Bank is a top supporter of Mountain Lake PBS, so we were happy to help the station celebrate with long-time television chef, Jacques Pepin. Even though Jacques had to cancel at the last minute due to COVID, we all enjoyed meeting him virtually and even posed with his likeness! Kudos to the team at Mountain Lake PBS for putting on such a wonderful event!

Steven Cacchio, Joe Bobee, Sarah Schmidt, Jennifer and Christopher Tedford, Lori Hebert, Robert Geiger

Free Coffee Giveaway 2022

We enjoyed surprising the Plattsburgh community with FREE coffee all day at our two Coffee Giveaway events this last month. We hope everyone who stopped by had a good time and enjoyed meeting our team!

Downtown Plattsburgh Branch: Laurie Kelsh, Vincent Bondinello, Todd Hambleton

School Supplies Donation for the 2022/2023 School Year

Employees of Champlain National Bank donated their own money (along with a donation from the Bank) to buy school supplies for local classrooms, so that every child will have what they need to be successful this academic year. Good luck to both students and teachers!

Downtown Plattsburgh Branch: Layal Nizam, Gregory Towne, Ralitsa Livermore

Downtown Plattsburgh Branch: Cynthia Casey (Keeseville Kids' Cove), Ralitsa Livermore

Plattsburgh Branch: Zachary Towle, Ralitsa Livermore, Gabriella Self

Plattsburgh Branch: Daniel Valenzuela (Plattsburgh High School), Ralitsa Livermore

Westport Branch: Dan Parker (Boquet Valley Elementary), Kurri Westover

Champlain Branch: Kelly Blondo, Brian Ellsworth

Saranac Lake Branch: Renee Hochwald

Crown Point Branch: Kurri Westover

Lake Placid Branch: Maja Giambalvo, Heather McGinnis, Claire Fletcher

Support For The Strand Center For The Arts

Keeping arts venues (like the Strand Center in Plattsburgh) up and running is critical to the vitality of our communities. Champlain National Bank is proud to be a long-time supporter of the Strand and applauds their work with a Business Membership! We’re looking forward to their upcoming shows and programming!

Nursing Homes Donations

We collected health and beauty products to donate to residents living at our local nursing homes, who were so grateful to receive items like nail polish, body wash and lotion.

Plattsburgh Branch: Ralitsa Livermore, Kathi Heit (Plattsburgh Rehabilitation), Felicia Kurth (Plattsburgh Rehabilitation)

Westport Branch: Michelle McGuire, Kurri Westover

Willsboro Branch: Michelle Cross, Beth McLaughlin (Essex Center)

Elizabethtown Donations

Jean Day to Raise Money for School Supplies

It was Jean Day at Champlain National Bank – for a cause! Many parents and schools struggle to make sure students have all the necessary school supplies – so employees of Champlain National Bank banded together to raise money to help our local schools buy what they need. Employees who contributed also got to wear jeans to show their support for our local schools!

Plattsburgh Branch: Gabriella Self, Zachary Towle, Medara Sherman, Katherine Towne, Gregory Towne, Ralitsa Livermore, Sara Rock, Darlene Mirrer, Layal Nizam

Crown Point Branch: Rosann Fields, Kurri Westover, Jaime Whitcomb

Champlain Branch: Karen Montbriand, Kelly Blondo

Free Shredding at Champlain National Bank

We loved hearing about how our Free Shredding Events gave our clients the opportunity to purge tons of old paper with sensitive data! We’re happy to provide the community with this service – for free! Stay tuned for our next event dates and locations!

Lena Robetoy helps dispose of a box of papers

Free Shredding Event in Elizabethtown

Mr. Bankus "Marches" in Local Parades!

It’s parade season and that means you might catch a glimpse of our very own Piggy Bank, Mr. Bankus in your town! When he shows up – he brings fun money candy to everyone along the parade route! He’s pictured here participating in the Crown Point Memorial Day Parade and the Westport Independence Day Parade.

Michelle McGuire, Kurri Westover

Regina and Kurri Westover

Jean Day for Robb Elementary School Memorial Fund

Employees wanted to do something to show support for the families of the victims of the Robb Elementary School Shooting, so everyone chipped in to send a donation to the Memorial Fund. The Bank also made a donation to the Fund. We’re so proud of the thoughtfulness of our team!

Lake Placid Branch: Heather McGinnis, Maja Giambalvo

North Country Chamber of Commerce Business Expo

The team from Champlain National Bank attended the reimagined North Country Chamber Business Expo, and had the opportunity to learn from thought leaders in our region. (Of course, we also had a table of information and giveaways at the Expo!)

Autism Alliance Jean Day

We’re proud to support the important work of the Autism Alliance of Northeastern NY and be a top sponsor of their annual fundraising Walk. Employees across our branches dressed in blue and wore jeans to show their support for this wonderful organization!

Willsboro Branch: Teresa Cummings, Tracy LaBombard, Andrea Robare, Judy Hoskins, Maghan MacDougal, Erica Cain, Skiler Stafford, Craig LaPine, Marilyn Strong

Westport Branch: Medara Sherman, Kurri Westover

Keene Branch: Melanie Porter, James Moscatello

Crown Point Branch: Rosann Fields, Autumn Flora

Sunflower Pins to Support Ukrainian Refugees

Employees of Champlain National Bank helped with the fundraising efforts of the North Country Mission of Hope by purchasing sunflower pins. The money raised from the sale of pins will go to their efforts to help Ukrainian refugees.

Sunflower Pin

Willsboro Branch: Teresa Cummings, Cindy Caner, Erica Cain, Andrea Robare, Michelle Cross, Dorene Dixon, Cindy Monty, Lena Robetoy, Marilyn Strong, Maghan MacDougal, Lisa Jaquish

Westport Branch: Michelle McGuire, Kurri Westover

Saranac Lake Branch: Heather McGinnis, Renee Hochwald

Elizabethtown Branch: Medara Sherman, Josh Pierson, Melissa LaMotte, Courtney Christian

Nursing Home Collection Drive

Our branches are collecting used and new beauty items to be given to residents of local nursing homes, many who consider these products a luxury. Please drop off any items to one of our branches and we’ll get them to people who would truly love to receive them!

Willsboro Branch: Michelle Cross, Lisa Jaquish, Lena Robetoy

Doc Lopez Run for Health 2022

Our employees volunteered their time at the recent Doc Lopez Run, making sure the runners stayed hydrated along the course. The Run benefited The University of Vermont Health Network – Elizabethtown Community Hospital, specifically their work with people in our community living with diabetes.

Joshua Pierson, Melissa LaMotte, Kurri Westover

Jane's Fight Fund Jean Day

Employees selected Jane’s Fight Fund to support with their donations for our latest Jean Day. This wonderful organization provides money to local families who have a loved one fighting cancer to help ease their financial burden. Great work by the Sample family (who named this organization in honor of Jane Sample) for all they do for families dealing with a cancer diagnosis.

Keene Branch: Melanie Porter, James Moscatello

St. Patrick's Day Breakfast

Champlain National Bank is proud to support the North Country Chamber’s St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast, which honors a local person every year who exemplifies dedication to volunteering and civic activities. Congratulations to the 2022 winner, our former NYS Assembly Representative Janet Duprey!

Tim Kononan, Taylor Sousa, Lisa Roberts, Lori Hebert, Matt Boire, Steven Cacchio, Jackie Hallock, Medara Sherman, Julianna Dormann

Janet Duprey accepts her award

North Country Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner 2022

We got dressed up to help the North Country Chamber of Commerce honor some incredible local businesses at their Annual Dinner. Thanks to our amazing Chamber, and to all local businesses for what they do to make our community such a special place!

Lori Hebert, Lisa Roberts, Tim Kononan, Jackie Hallock, Taylor Sousa

Go Red For Women

In honor of February being American Heart Month, the staff at Champlain National Bank decided to stand together and “Go Red For Women”. Employees and the Bank gave generously to the American Heart Association to help fund heart disease research and advocacy efforts.

Willsboro Branch: Michelle Cross, Craig LaPine, Lisa Jaquish, April Marble, Andrea Robare, Erica Cain, Jennifer Tedford, Judy Hoskins, Skiler Stafford, Toni McCray, Abbey Daggett, Jackie Hallock

Downtown Plattsburgh Branch: Lori Hebert, Taylor Sousa, Laurie Kelsh, Tiah Drown

Keene Branch: Rachel Hofaker, Melanie Porter, James Moscatello

Elizabethtown Branch: Joshua Pierson, Courtney Christian, Melissa LaMotte, Ralitsa Livermore

Adirondack Coast Sports Soccer Team Sponsorship

We think the Champlain National Bank Wolfpack is the coolest soccer team around! Thanks to their coach, our very own Consumer Lending Underwriter/Processor Sara Rock, and the team at Adirondack Coast Sports for giving these kids an opportunity to play all year long at the Crete!

Sara Rock with Team Wolfpack

United Way Pacesetter

The employees of Champlain National Bank are proud to be Pacesetters for giving to the United Way of the Adirondack Region, and along with a donation from the Bank, presented them with a check for $10,000! We know that the United Way allocates our donations to those in our community who need it the most, and is an important resource for people in crisis. Thanks to the team at the United Way for all they do!

Downtown Plattsburgh Branch: Brittany Faubert, Taylor Sousa, Lori Hebert, Kristin Cumm, Lisa Roberts, Desiree Maze

Project We Care 2021

Thank you to everyone who donated to Champlain National Bank’s Project We Care! With your help, we were able to fulfill the Christmas wishes of your neighbors, both young and old, so that everyone could have a special holiday season. We donated toys, food, and warm clothing to many local charities, schools and members of the senior community, making a real difference in their lives. The generosity of our clients and employees is truly amazing!

Elizabethtown Branch: Joshua Pierson, Courtney Christian, Brian Ellsworth, Lizzie Stephens

Westport Branch: Kurri Westover, Montana Baker

Downtown Plattsburgh Branch: Barb McGee (Plattsburgh Interfaith Food Shelf), Kristin Cumm, Sandy Ryan (Plattsburgh Interfaith Food Shelf), Gina Gratton (Plattsburgh Interfaith Food Shelf), Tiah Drown

Willsboro Branch: Lena Robetoy, Lisa Jaquish, Michelle Cross

Champlain Branch: Kelsey Monette, Michelle Menard (Mooers Elementary)

Westport Santa Parade

Mr. Bankus helped spread holiday cheer to the residents of Wadhams and Westport at the Westport Hose Company’s 10th Annual Santa Parade.

Kurri Westover

Holiday Sweaters for Project We Care

Employees who contributed to Champlain National Bank’s Project We Care got to wear jeans and a fun holiday sweater to work! Our employees are so generous with those who are less fortunate in our communities, especially during the holidays.

Plattsburgh Branch: Gabriella Self, Medara Sherman, Brandon Frenyea, Katherine Towne, Julianna Dormann, Darlene Mirrer, Sara Rock, Desiree Maze

Downtown Plattsburgh Branch: Taylor Sousa, Tiah Drown, Kristin Cumm, Anne Franks, Lori Hebert, Laurie Kelsh, Lisa Roberts, Ha Nguyen

Keene Branch: Melanie Porter, Rachel Hofaker, James Moscatello

Westport Branch: Kurri Westover, Montana Baker

Lake Placid Branch: Renee Hochwald, Maja Giambalvo

Breast Cancer Memorial Donation

October was Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so in memory of our long-time Plattsburgh Office Supervisor Lori Boren, employees Champlain National Bank decided to “Go Pink”! Employees are donating money to CVPH in honor of Lori, and will be placing a gold leaf with her name on it on the Tree Of Life Plaque located at the Cancer Center. Champlain National Bank is also purchasing a new, specialized $5,000 chair for the Infusion Center at CVPH in her honor, which will make patients receiving care much more comfortable. Here we are wearing pink in Lori's honor.

Downtown Plattsburgh Branch: Kristin Cumm, Anne Franks, Ed Finnerty, Tiah Drown, Ha Nguyen, Lori Hebert

Plattsburgh Branch: Julianna Dormann, Gabriella Self, Katherine Towne, Sara Rock, Medara Sherman, Gabriella Grant, Darlene Mirrer

Willsboro Branch: Marilyn Strong, Rosale Lewis, Adriane Holland, Erica Cain, April Marble, Andrea Robare, Randi Swires, Teresa Kaschak, Cindy Monty, Dorene Dixon, Teresa Cummings, Tracy LaBombard, Lena Robetoy, Avery Ellis, Michelle Cross

Elizabethtown Branch: Ralitsa Livermore, Kristen Pulsifer, Brian Ellsworth, Courtney Christian, Ashleigh Cook

Lake Placid Branch: Cindy Caner, Maja Giambalvo

Keene Branch: James Moscatello, Melanie Porter, Rachel Hofaker

Champlain Branch: Kelsey Monette, Shelby Connelly

Saranac Lake Branch: Heather McGinnis, Rebecca Miner

Boquet Valley Youth Commission Trunk or Treat

We handed out bags of candy at the Boquet Valley Youth Commission’s Trunk or Treat, a community-wide initiative to provide a safe option for local kids to go Trick-or-Treating. Held this year at the Essex County Fairgrounds, our Westport Office Supervisor Kurri Westover was joined by her two little witches who helped to distribute the candy.

Kurri Westover with Regina and Talia Westover

Halloween Client Appreciation Day 2021

We love celebrating Halloween by showering all visitors to our branches with special treats and fun. It’s a small way that we can say “thanks” for banking with us!

Champlain Branch: Kelsey Monette, Shelby Connelly

Willsboro Branch: April Marble, Michelle Cross, Lisa Jaquish, Avery Ellis, Lena Robetoy

Elizabethtown Branch: Courtney Christian, Brian Ellsworth, Kristen Pulsifer

Crown Point Branch: Jordan McKiernan, Vicki Sargent, Rosann Fields

Saranac Lake Branch: Rebecca Miner

Lake Placid Branch: Tammy Gaff

Stop Domestic Violence Awareness Month

In honor of October being Domestic Violence Awareness Month, employees wore purple and made a donation of supplies to our local STOP Domestic Violence. Victims of domestic violence have been emerging in extremely high numbers from the pandemic, and we want to thank and show our support for the local agencies who provide services and spread awareness.

Plattsburgh Branch: Darlene Mirrer, Katherine Towne, Brandon Frenyea, Sara Rock, Karen Montbriand, Gabriella Self, Gabriella Grant, Julianna Dormann

Westport Branch: Kurri Westover, Montana Baker

Elizabethtown Branch: Ralitsa Livermore, Ashleigh Cook, Brian Ellsworth, Kristen Pulsifer, Melissa LaMotte

Willsboro Branch: Judy Hoskins, Lena Robetoy, Dorene Dixon, Teresa Cummings, Tracy LaBombard, Ashley Carson, Michelle Cross, Adriane Holland, Erica Cain, Lisa Jaquish, Rosale Lewis, Marilyn Strong, Andrea Robare, Jackie Hallock, Cindy Monty

Saranac Lake Branch: Tammy Gaff, Rebecca Miner, Renee Darrah

Downtown Plattsburgh Branch: Anne Franks, Lori Hebert

Keene Branch: James Moscatello, Melanie Porter, Rachel Hofaker

Champlain Branch: Kelsey Monette

Free Coffee Giveaway

We had such a great time at our free drink giveaway from High Peaks Brew in Plattsburgh. Thanks to everyone who stopped by – we hope you had fun!

Medara Sherman, Jackie Hallock, Julianna Dormann, Brandon Frenyea, Katherine Towne, Sara Rock

The line for coffee!

Sara Rock, Darlene Mirrer, Katherine Towne

The sun rises before the crowd arrives!

Mike Foote (State Farm), Jackie Hallock

Haley Cutter (High Peaks Brew), Rebekah Hilpl (High Peaks Brew)

North Country Chamber Women in Business

We enjoyed a day of learning from some of the inspiring women in our community at the North Country Chamber’s Annual Women in Business Event! Fun fact: at Champlain National Bank, women comprise 80% of the workforce, so we know how important it is to support and celebrate women who work in banking and business.

Lori Hebert, Jackie Hallock, Ha Nguyen

Client Appreciation Day - Ice Cream Giveaway

We had a blast saying “thanks” to you at our Client Appreciation Day Ice Cream Giveaway! Make sure you check out our website frequently, so you’ll be the first to know when we’re holding our next giveaway!

Westport Branch: Kurri Westover, Kristen Pulsifer

Elizabethtown Branch: Melissa LaMotte, Ralitsa Livermore

Willsboro Branch: Andrea Robare, Maghan MacDougal, Rosale Lewis, Erica Cain, Marilyn Strong

Lake Placid Branch: Heather McGinnis, Maja Giambalvo

Saranac Lake Branch: Rebecca Miner, Renee Darrah

Keene Branch: Rachel Hofaker, Melanie Porter

Champlain Branch: Shelby Connelly

Plattsburgh Branch: Katherine Towne, Gabriella Self, Mike Foote (State Farm), Brian Ellsworth, Sara Rock

Downtown Plattsburgh Branch: Lori Hebert, Laurie Kelsh, Ha Nguyen, Tiah Drown, Kristin Cumm

Girl Scouts Women of Distinction Sponsorship

What a great night celebrating Girl Scouts and the Women of Distinction in Plattsburgh! A special shoutout goes to the Girl Scouts who emceed and presented the awards: Sarah Susice, Grace Duley and Claire Cook – they all did an amazing job! Champlain National Bank is a proud sponsor of the event, and several members of our team were on hand to cheer the ladies on!

Taylor Sousa, Jackie Hallock, Lori Hebert

Mutt Strut for North Country SPCA/Tri-Lakes Humane Society

Since Champlain National Bank is the most dog-friendly bank ever – we were proud to be a sponsor of this year’s Mutt Strut that supports our friends at the North Country SPCA and the Tri-Lakes Humane Society! Branch Manager Ralitsa Livermore and her pup, Misho, were even on hand during the 5K Fun Run and Walk! Good boy, Misho!

School Supplies Donation

Many parents and schools struggle to make sure students have all the necessary school supplies – so employees of Champlain National Bank banded together to raise money to help our local schools buy what they need. Employees who contributed also got to wear jeans to show their support for our local schools!

Keene: Cindy Summo (Keene Central School), Melanie Porter

Elizabethtown: Brian Ellsworth, Ralitsa Livermore, Melissa LaMotte

Plattsburgh: Lisa Zmijewski (Keeseville Kids' Cove), Kristin Cumm, Cynthia Casey (Keeseville Kids' Cove)

Willsboro: Lena Robetoy, Justin Gardner (Willsboro Central School)

Westport: Kristen Pulsifer, Kurri Westover

Champlain: Shelby Connelly, Stephanie Coulombe

Keene Branch: James Moscatello, Rachel Hofaker, Melanie Porter

Elizabethtown Branch: Ralitsa Livermore, Ashleigh Cook, Taylor Jarvis, Melissa LaMotte

Plattsburgh Branch: Kristin Cumm, Brandon Frenyea, Medara Sherman, Katherine Towne, Aubry Mauro, Julianna Dormann, Sara Rock

Saranac Lake: Rebecca Miner, Erika Bezio (Saranac Lake Central School)

Refinancing Workshops

Making sure people living in our communities understand all the financial options available to them is one of our missions. With interest rates being at record lows, we held a series of Refinancing Workshops to explain what it means to refinance and how it may benefit homeowners. Medara Sherman, our Mortgage Loan Specialist, explained how to take inventory of where you stand with your mortgage, and the many home loan options that are available.

Free Shredding Events

Thanks to our amazing staff who were on hand to help so many people shred their old paperwork at the annual Champlain National Bank Free Shredding Events! Stay tuned for our next event dates and locations!

Keene Branch: Dejan Loncarevic (SecurShred), Jackie Hallock, Melanie Porter, James Moscatello

Elizabethtown Branch: Jackie Hallock, Taylor Jarvis

Westport Independence Day Parade

So much fun to give out treats for dogs and humans alike in front of the Champlain National Bank branch during the Westport Independence Day Parade. Even Mr. Bankus (our piggy bank balloon) made an appearance and watched the parade go by!

Ralitsa Livermore, Kurri Westover

Francisca Paine Irwin Award

Champlain National Bank is proud to support the endowment of the Francisca (Frisky) Paine Irwin Award through the Essex Community Fund with another major financial gift. This award is granted annually to an Essex resident who has made a meaningful contribution to enhance the quality of life in Essex, which was exemplified by Frisky. Congratulations to the second winner of the award, Sally P. Johnson, who did so much for the community including keeping the trees along Main Street manicured and fertilized. We’re proud to be one of the original (and long-time) supporters of the Essex Community Fund!

CFES Brilliant Pathways Partner

Giving young people a basic understanding of money (and how to manage it) is one of Champlain National Bank’s core missions. We’ve been so proud to partner with CFES Brilliant Pathways for many years, who are just as committed to providing this essential skill to today’s students, and who’ve helped us bring financial education into classrooms. To learn more about CFES, visit their website at: www.brilliantpathways.org or to learn more about financial education programs at Champlain National Bank, visit our Financial Education page, or call your local branch.

Stepping Out For Your Heart

Champlain National Bank employees wore red to show their support for people living with heart disease and made a donation to the Heart Center at CVPH.

Keene Branch: Rachel Hofaker, Melanie Porter, James Moscatello

Elizabethtown Branch: Ralitsa Livermore, Melissa LaMotte, Kristen Pulsifer, Ashleigh Cook

Keene School Supplies Donation

We donated school supplies to Keene Central School after they shared with us that some of the students and teachers could really use them. We’re so glad we could help! Our Branch Manager in Keene, Melanie Porter, is pictured with Cindy Summo from Keene Central School with our donated supplies.

NYSEF Snowsports Sponsorship

Thanks to organizations like NYSEF Snowsports, local children and young adults are given opportunities to try snow sports for the first time, and its how many of our local athletes get access to unparalleled training. We’re proud to support this organization as a sponsor.

Mission of Hope "Got Sneakers" Collection

We collected several buckets, bags and boxes full of sneakers to be donated to the Mission of Hope. They will be sent to people who can’t afford to buy themselves a single pair. Thanks to our employees and clients for giving so generously.

Willsboro Branch: Lisa Jaquish, Lena Robetoy, Tiffani Tromblee

Plattsburgh Branch: Sabrina Smith, Kristin Cumm

Willsboro Branch: Michelle Cross, Lena Robetoy

Champlain Branch: Brandon Frenyea