First Central Savings Bank is connecting the corporate world to the natural world. The Alley Pond Environmental Center (APEC) hosted its 2021 Welcome Autumn Concert, where First Central Savings Bank’s Michael Serao was recognized as the “Corporate Friend of the Environment.”
The award recognizes the bank’s dedication to community banking and responsibility for the education of the natural world.
“Many years went into supporting the nonprofit world that are the heart of our communities, and our partnership with APEC means so much to me that the work that we are so passionate about also resonates with others,” said Serao, who serves as executive vice president and chief administrative officer.
Councilman Paul Vallone attended the concert and honored Serao with the award. This is the eighth time the award has been presented.
According to Irene V. Scheid, executive director at APEC, First Central Savings Bank has supported their programs for a few years.
“They also have provided supplies for some of our children’s programs. We appreciate their help to keep our programs active as we get through these unsettling times together,” Scheid said.
The bank’s $5,000 sponsorship will go toward enhancing APEC’s programs, environmental studies for youth and raising awareness for generations to come.
“Thank you to APEC for providing inspiration not only for myself but to hundreds of children and future environmental liaisons,” Serao said. “I hope that this recognition of our work can serve as an inspiration to others in the field. Remember, if our work can make a difference, so can yours.”
The event was hosted at APEC’s temporary facility in Oakland Gardens, while their Northern Boulevard location undergoes renovations. Gathering Time, a folk-music ensemble, provided a soothing ambiance at the picnic-style venue.
