By Kelly Riley
PBN Staff Writer

The Washington Trust Co. is a company steeped in history. It is the oldest community bank in the country as well as one of the longest-publicly traded companies. Since 1800, Washington Trust has been serving the people of southern Washington County.

The company sees employees as its most valuable asset and rewards them with generous compensation packages and bonuses.

In addition to being recognized with an “outstanding” award by Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island and the Workplace Wellness Council twice in recent years, Washington Trust has been recognized by the Dave Thomas Foundation as one of the best adoption-friendly workplaces in America.

For the employees of Washington Trust, the hometown bank is a caring member of the family. It honors employees who take the initiative to contribute to the community beyond bank-sponsored events. Washington Trust also awards bonuses to employees for teamwork, honesty, integrity and service, in addition to meeting professional goals.

Employees are encouraged to reach out to the next generation of customers. Through programs sponsored by the American Banker’s Association, members of the staff visit schools throughout Rhode Island and Connecticut to educate children about saving and credit.

Washington Trust strives to fulfill its’ vision: “To be the best Community Bank and Trust Company in New England.”

The bank encourages employees to help those less fortunate with community involvement, such as the annual peanut butter drive for the Rhode Island Community Food Bank.

In fact, the 10-year-old initiative has donated more than 87 tons of peanut butter to Rhode Island families in need.•