Piedmont Federal Bank hosts The Do School graduation ceremony, makes $10,000 donation

Piedmont Federal Bank continued its support of The Do School by hosting the organization's recent graduation ceremony and donating $10,000 to the nonprofit during the event.

The ceremony, held at Piedmont Federal Bank's headquarters on Stratford Road, honored four graduates - Vanessa Watkins, Ronald Hines Jr., Tevin Braxton and Jawaaduldin Anderson - who completed the program's hands-on workforce development training and renovated a home that will be returned to the community.

Since 2023, Piedmont Federal Bank has donated $21,500 to The Do School, with funds dedicated to securing the nonprofit's next learning lab. These labs are central to The Do School's mission of building a more inclusive economy, expanding access to affordable housing and equipping participants with trade skills through experiential renovation projects.

"Piedmont Federal Bank's partnership with The Do School is a natural extension of our commitment to our community pillars - People, Planet and Place," said Sandra Gaskell, director of risk and compliance at Piedmont Federal Bank and a member of The Do School's board of directors."

"This work especially brings 'Place' to life, while also strongly supporting 'People.' We're proud to invest in a program that creates opportunity, strengthens neighborhoods, and helps individuals build longterm career pathways."

In addition to recognizing the graduates, the Shallow Ford Foundation provided each participant with a starter tool set, giving them the equipment they need as they enter the workforce.

Piedmont Federal Bank's involvement with The Do School extends beyond financial support. Team members have volunteered on job sites, helped finance learning lab projects, and provided financial wellness education to program cohorts.

"It was more than a graduation - it was a celebration of progress, opportunity and community impact," Gaskell said. "We're not just funding a mission; we're actively participating in it."

Through its continued investment and hands-on engagement, Piedmont Federal Bank aims to help The Do School expand its reach, strengthen its model and create lasting economic mobility for individuals across the region.

For over 120 years, Piedmont Federal Bank has been committed to its purpose of "Opening Doors" for its clients. The bank supports individuals in achieving significant milestones, from homeownership to growing local businesses. As one of the few remaining mutual banks in North Carolina, Piedmont Federal Bank is owned by its depositors, not shareholders, allowing the bank to prioritize the interests of its clients.

Piedmont Federal Bank currently serves nearly 18,000 consumer and business clients and manages $1.3 billion in assets. Headquartered in Winston-Salem, the bank operates 11 branch locations across the Triad, North Wilkesboro, Boone, and Wake Forest, offering a range of personal and business banking solutions. For more information, visit PiedmontFederal.bank.