Clarien Bank employees invested a morning’s hard work last Friday at the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum & Zoo (BAMZ) in Flatts for the Bank’s annual Clarien Cares Volunteer Day.

Inclement weather meant staff were not help with the Trunk Island Restoration Project in Harrington Sound as planned but the 18-strong team were still able to put in a productive day helping with the ongoing maintenance work required in preparation for the Aquarium’s upcoming accreditation with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). AZA represents more than 230 institutions worldwide that meet the highest standards in animal care and provide a fun, safe, and educational family experience.

Dr. Ian Walker, the BAMZ’s Principal Curator, commented: “BAMZ has always relied on volunteers and it is fantastic to get such a cheerful and productive group that came from Clarien Bank today. The teams jumped into the work readily and were open to everything from cleaning out work sites for our new exhibit to assisting us with the continuous horticulture work to keep the gardens looking great. It is not glamorous work but it is very necessary to keeping us running and we greatly appreciate the help we received.”

Michael DeCouto, SVP, Chief Digital and Marketing Officer for Clarien Bank, said: “Clarien is proud to have been a sponsor of the BZS for several years and a committed supporter of the unique and valuable educational opportunities it provides to our community and beyond.

“At Clarien we believe it is important to give back to the community we serve, not just through financial support but by being involved at a personal level. Teamwork is key to our success as a business and ‘getting our hands dirty’ at our Volunteer Day not only provides the BZS with practical help but gives our employees a real connection with the community.”

The following Clarien employees took part in the volunteer day: Nicoy Anglin, Nikki Benevides, Michael Cardoso, Andrew Cassidy, Malcolm Clarke, Latisha Daniels, Wolette Darrell, Michael DeCouto, Qian Dickinson, Eve Foster, Thea Furbert, Melanie Gauntlet, Courtney Kromer, Conor McLaughlin, Michael Paynter, Jeannie Usher, Eric West, and Euriqué Wilkin.

For more information about the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum & Zoo visit the BAMZ website.

• Press release from Clarien Bank