Press Release from GSB

GSB, in keeping with its ethos of philanthropic community support, is officially donating its building at 44 Boston Street, Guilford, CT to The Guilford Foundation. For more than 20 years, GSB has provided this space to the Foundation, making it a natural and meaningful step to now formalize the donation.

As a proud supporter of The Guilford Foundation, GSB recognizes the critical role the Foundation plays in enhancing the quality of life for the Guilford community. For nearly five decades, The Guilford Foundation has worked tirelessly to address the evolving needs of the town, driving philanthropic efforts that are both inclusive and impactful.

“GSB was founded in Guilford, and for nearly 150 years, our guiding principles and core values as a community bank have been grounded in serving our neighbors and giving back to our community,” said Timothy Geelan, CEO. “This donation ensures that The Guilford Foundation has the permanent resources to continue their outstanding work in helping Guilford grow and thrive.”

GSB’s contribution represents a significant milestone in the partnership between the two organizations. The donation not only gives The Guilford Foundation a building to call its own but also reflects GSB’s commitment to creating spaces where collaboration and community-driven initiatives can flourish. The bank hopes the building will serve as a hub of generosity and strategic leadership, further empowering The Guilford Foundation to make a lasting impact.

“At GSB, we believe in giving back to the communities that have supported us for generations. This donation is more than just the transfer of a building, it’s an investment in the future of Guilford. We’re committed to fostering a stronger, more vibrant community, and this donation is a tangible expression of that commitment,” said Shalonta Ford, SVP, Director of Community Relations & DEI.

“The partnership between GSB and The Guilford Foundation has been incredible to be a part of. We are seeing first-hand how local businesses and nonprofits can come together to make a lasting impact and support the community in meaningful ways. We look forward to all the ways in which this donation will help enrich the lives of Guilford residents for years to come,” shared Alex Sulpasso, EVP, Client Experience Officer at GSB and Board Chair of The Guilford Foundation.

The timing of the donation is particularly significant, coinciding with major anniversaries for both organizations—The Guilford Foundation’s 50th and GSB’s 150th, both in 2025.

“We are incredibly grateful for this transformative gift. Owning the building will enable us to operate efficiently, foster collaboration, allow us to solidify our role as a trusted philanthropic leader in Guilford,” explained Liza Janssen Petra, Executive Director, The Guilford Foundation. “This building represents the next chapter for the foundation as we expand our impact through community leadership, grantmaking, scholarships, and sponsorships.”

GSB’s gesture exemplifies its broader mission to go beyond banking and actively contribute to the community’s growth. Both GSB and The Guilford Foundation share a vision for community growth and compassion for our neighbors. Together we believe this donation will be a catalyst for the prosperity of future generations and ensure a legacy of community support for years to come.

Pictured above from left to right: Liza Janssen Petra, Executive Director, The Guilford Foundation; Alex Sulpasso, EVP, Client Experience Officer, GSB and Board Chair, The Guilford Foundation; Shalonta Ford, SVP, Director of Community Relations & DEI, GSB; Kyle Eagleson, President & Chief Operating Officer, GSB; Tim Geelan, Chief Executive Officer, GSB.