Volunteers from Wells Fargo recently worked with members of the nonprofit organization Phipps Neighborhoods to help beautify the Phipps Neighborhoods Opportunity Center in the West Farms section of the Bronx. The event was part of Wells Fargo’s third annual Welcome Home initiative, which aims to create more accessible and affordable homes and communities across the country.
Working alongside Bronx-based artist Laura Alverez, volunteers painted an original mural on the exterior of the building. They also built new flower beds in an outdoor garden in the center’s courtyard, which will be used by the community, including the Phipps early childhood programs.
Volunteers also provided career readiness skills for Phipps Neighborhoods Career Network program participants, including interview preparation. The event also featured a pop-up farmer’s market in partnership with FoodStream Network, where volunteers distributed 150 bags of fresh produce to community members.
Participants included Wells Fargo Chief Operating Officer Scott Powell, who serves on the board of Phipps Houses (Phipps Neighborhoods affordable housing affiliate), and Phipps Neighborhoods Executive Director & CEO Andre White.
“We’re proud of our long-standing collaboration with Phipps to help more New Yorkers access education, career, and economic opportunities to succeed at school and work, raise healthy families, and build thriving communities,” said Powell. “Volunteering our time and our skills is a terrific way to show how much we care for the communities we serve, and we’re honored to join Phipps in this day of service and hope to make a positive impact in the community.”
“We are proud to have partnered with Wells Fargo for the past three years through their Welcome Home Initiative,” said White. “Our mission to build thriving communities is fueled by investments in projects like this one and our over 30 education and career programs, including Career Network, which equips young adults with the skills and mentorship they need to secure meaningful employment and long-term success.”
Wells Fargo’s philanthropic mission is to address community issues such as financial health, housing affordability, small business growth, and sustainability. In 2023, Wells Fargo awarded roughly $19.8 million to support local nonprofits and community organizations throughout New York. The company’s employees in New York volunteered more than 18,000 hours in 2023 to support nonprofits and causes important to them. Wells Fargo also has a goal to deploy $500 billion in sustainable finance by 2030.