Freeport Community Services (FCS) has been providing critical support to the communities of Freeport and Pownal since 1974. As we lead up to our signature White Nights celebration on Jan. 23, 2016, we have partnered with the Tri-Town Weekly for the third year in a row to “Shine the Light” on some of the friends of FCS who make such a difference in our community.

Michelle Barker rarely sits down. Her job as assistant branch manager with Bath Savings Institution in Freeport, where she has worked for 10 years, keeps her busy. But it is her commitment to many local organizations, including Freeport Community Services (FCS), which truly sets her apart.

Michelle routinely volunteers for several FCS special projects and this summer offered to organize the Fourth of July Parade. She was recently re-elected as president of the Board of Directors for the Greater Freeport Chamber. Michelle is also the director of her son Austin’s PeeWee wrestling program, and coaches the cheering squad at Lisbon High School.

How does she do it all?

“I have a drive to help others,” Michelle explained. “I am very lucky to have an employer that supports both me and the community.”

Bath Savings Institution, which is once again the lead gold sponsor for the FCS White Nights event, has been a partner and sponsor of Freeport Community Services for many years.

“Banking is our business, but we are all about what is right for the community. FCS is what is right for the community,” she said.

This sense of caring is fostered in every interaction with Bath Savings Institution’s customers.

“We really are a community bank,” said Michelle. “We have a close relationship with our customers. People share their lives with us – often we are some of the first people to know who is getting married, having a baby, or moving.”

And the latest request?

“One customer even asked me recently to officiate her wedding,” Michelle said. “She wanted to have someone she knew, and I am a notary public. It is really nice.”

When Michelle and the team at Bath Savings Institution become aware of a customer in need, they know just where to turn.

“We refer people to FCS all the time,” Michelle said. “Maybe someone has lost their job and needs food temporarily from the pantry – I refer them to FCS. If they just moved to town, and need a good used kitchen table, I tell them to go to the Thrift Store at FCS. If they want to get involved in the community – everyone is there at the Community Center, including the Chamber, the Elders, and the Conservation Trust.”

Freeport Community Services is grateful to have friends like Michelle Barker and Bath Savings Institution as part of our community of caring.

Visit www.fcsmaine.org or call 865-3985 to learn more about FCS and our many services and volunteer opportunities.

Michelle Barker is assistant branch manager with Bath Savings Institution, which has been a partner and sponsor of Freeport Community Services for many years.