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Contributions to the Community by Lillian Chan With the recent wave of bank mergers and acquisitions, some folks have been wondering how in the midst of all the change, the Asian and Asian American community will be better served. The three financial institutions in the Boston area, Fleet, Citizens, and Soverign are prominent. On almost every block, an automated teller machine emblazoned with the respective bank's logo can be seen. Generally, most people don't know much about what these banks do besides the fact that money is deposited and taken out. Speaking to a representative from Fleet, Mary Truong, it was brought to the attention the involvement Fleet has had with the Asian and Asian American community. In addition to assisting customers with obtaining bank loans and informing them on how to maintaing good credit, Fleet has also taken part in organizing luncheons and hands-on workshops. Fleet is also involved in community banking by outreaching to help customers in low-moderate income areas. As Truong stated, "it's not just getting business." By also participating in events such as the Walk for Hunger, the United Way campaign, serving on boards for fundraisers, and volunteering at homeless shelters, Fleet has demonstrated its involvement. "We're taking the lead to help people," Truong said. Is Fleet concerned about the local city banks? According to Truong, Fleet has an advantage in that it's a bigger institution with more resources whereas smaller banks may offer fewer choices and fewer resources. With that, Fleet is able to do more for the community. Truong stressed Fleet's commitment and how Fleet has demonstrated it by investing money and time to the people. The other banks, Citizens and Sovereign, could not be reached by press time for comment. printed in the Sampan, New England's Only Chinese-English Newspaper, on September 15, 2000 |