Manchester, NH - St. Mary's Bank recently gave $500 to the Central High School Association of Music Parents (CHAMPS), an organization supporting the activities of the Central High School Music Department. The donation will sponsor a visiting artist program at the school, which will include instruction, specialized instruments and additional music.

“This program will expose our music students to different perspectives,” said Theresa Sinotte, president of CHAMPS. “These visiting musicians and instructors will bring professional and practical experience to the classroom that our students wouldn’t otherwise have access to. We are thankful to St. Mary’s Bank for helping make this program possible.”

CHAMPS volunteers provide assistance during football games, parades and concert seasons and give additional financial support for music activities throughout the year.

“St. Mary’s is always pleased to help the students of Manchester enrich their classroom learning experience,” said Tom Champagne, director of community outreach for St. Mary’s Bank. “Music and the arts are important pieces of a well-rounded education, and activities like the visiting artists program give these talented students the resources they need to excel at their craft.”

The gift to CHAMPS was made through St. Mary's Bank's Community Outreach Program, which serves the New Hampshire community through loans and grants to specific organizations and charities.