Original Article 

LAKE ARIEL, PA — NBT Bank has again demonstrated its commitment to environmental education and community enrichment by donating $5,000 to Lacawac Sanctuary Field Station and Environmental Education Center through Pennsylvania’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program. In addition, the bank has contributed $2,500 as a corporate member and program sponsor, bringing its total support this year to $7,500. Lacawac, a nonprofit organization dedicated to environmental research, education and preservation, will use the EITC funds to support K-12 academic enrichment programs, including school field experiences, outdoor classroom initiatives and STEM-based summer day camps. These programs introduce students to Pennsylvania’s unique natural habitats while encouraging hands-on learning and scientific exploration. “NBT Bank is proud to support Lacawac Sanctuary’s mission of inspiring future generations to learn about and protect the natural world,” said Matt Colgan, NBT Bank regional commercial banking manager. “Through programs like EITC, we can reinvest in organizations that are making a lasting impact in our region.” Pennsylvania’s EITC program enables businesses to support approved educational programs while receiving significant tax credits—75 percent for a one-year donation or 90 percent for a two-year commitment. Donations like NBT’s directly enhance access to innovative learning experiences for local students. Founded in 1966, Lacawac Sanctuary is located on the shores of Lake Wallenpaupack and includes Lake Lacawac—one of the southernmost undeveloped glacial lakes in the hemisphere. The sanctuary provides a unique living laboratory for scientific research and serves as a hub for environmental education in northeastern Pennsylvania.