NORTH COAST, Calif. – Eleven local nonprofit organizations in Mendocino and Lake counties received a portion of the $16,132 donated in the past year by Savings Bank of Mendocino County and its employees during their “Casual For A Cause – Denim Days” fundraising effort.

Of this amount, $1,351 was received by the Lake Family Resource Center.

The idea of “Casual For A Cause – Denim Days” began in January 2012 with a group of Savings Bank employees who wanted an additional way to make a difference in our communities during these difficult economic times.

Every Friday, employees have the opportunity to dress casual by wearing denim jeans to work while supporting a variety of local nonprofit organizations through voluntary donations.

Employees select a different local nonprofit organization as beneficiary of the proceeds on a monthly basis.

The 2013 beneficiaries were: Hospice of Ukiah, Redwood Children’s Services, Hopland American Legion Auxiliary Post 529, Project Sanctuary, Plowshares, Calpella Elementary School Hydration Station and Library, Lake Family Resource Center, Mendocino K-8 School Library, Ukiah Community Food Bank, Willits Educational Foundation and Laytonville Volunteer Fire Department.

“I’m pleased to announce that this program will continue in 2014 with the Boys and Girls Club of Ukiah as the January beneficiary,” said Katie Kight, AVP / marketing officer. “As the local community bank, Savings Bank is proud of our tradition of giving back to our communities and the community support and volunteer time that our employees provide.”