Bank Employees Raise $2,396 for Domestic Violence Shelter

Every Friday for over ten years, Chelsea State Bank employees have done something small that adds up to something big. They each donate $3 to wear jeans to work, and the bank matches every dollar.

This time, their casual Friday tradition delivered $2,396 to AWARE, Inc., a shelter that provides critical services to survivors of domestic and sexual violence. The donation will help fund emergency housing, counseling, legal advocacy, and safety planning for people fleeing dangerous situations.

"We had the privilege of working with Christi and the AWARE team earlier this year during the Jackson Chamber of Commerce Day of Impact, and we immediately felt the profound influence they have on the survivors," said Joanne Rau, Chelsea State Bank's President and CEO. The connection was personal enough that employees chose AWARE as their quarterly recipient.

The Blue Jeans for Charity fund started more than a decade ago as a simple idea: give employees a reason to look forward to Fridays while building a giving habit. At $3 per person per week, the donations might seem modest, but they've created a steady stream of support for local nonprofits year after year.

The Ripple Effect

What makes this model work is its sustainability. Employees aren't asked for one-time heroic gifts but for consistent small contributions that become part of workplace culture. The bank's matching commitment doubles the impact without doubling the effort.

For AWARE, unrestricted donations like this are especially valuable. They can direct funds where they're needed most, whether that's emergency supplies, childcare during court appearances, or simply keeping the lights on at their 24/7 crisis hotline.

"We are truly honored that you chose AWARE as the recipient of your Jeans Fundraiser," said Christi O'Neil, AWARE's Executive Director. "Your generosity will help us continue providing the essential services that survivors rely on every day."

The beauty of Chelsea State Bank's approach is how it transforms everyday routines into community support, proving that changing the world can start with something as simple as changing your pants.