With a goal of helping to build thriving communities, Bank of America this week distributed $205,000 in grants to 10 Phoenix-area nonprofits working to increase housing and educational opportunities for families. In addition to the dollars donated, Bank of America encourages its employees to volunteer their time with many of the recipient agencies also benefiting from group building and clean-up projects.

“When our customers and community succeeds, we all succeed and these grants will help Bank of America and the Phoenix-area thrive together,” said Benito Almanza, Arizona Market president, Bank of America. “Assisting with housing needs is critical as we work to help families reach financial stability and allow them to prepare for the future. Additionally, we also want to make sure that children have the supplies they need to prosper in school so we have once again chosen a charity that can help us reach those families that may need extra assistance during back to school time.”

Organizations receiving grants include: Arizona Housing Alliance, Back-To-School Clothing Drive Association, Chicanos Por La Causa, Habitat for Humanity Central Arizona, Homeward Bound, Newtown Community Development Corporation, Rebuilding Together Valley of the Sun, Tempe Community Council, Trellis (formerly NHS of Phoenix) and UMOM New Day Centers.

The nonprofits throughout the Valley of the Sun receiving support focus on connecting young families to long-term housing needs as well as ensuring that those who have served in the military have the resources necessary to advance their individual financial needs.

“On behalf of the Trellis board of directors, staff and clients pursing to become homeowners, we say thank you,” said Trellis President and CEO Patricia Garcia Duarte. “We thank Bank of America for investing in Trellis’ mission of making stable homes and communities possible. We wouldn’t be able to do it without your valuable support.”

These grants are just one part of Bank of America’s commitment to responsible growth as it works to improve the financial lives of individuals and families in Phoenix. Philanthropic and volunteer investments play a key role in this effort with bank employees donating more than 110,000 hours and almost $3 million in donations during 2015 to nonprofits throughout the Valley.