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8 "Community is like a living, breathing entity. Its strength is dependent upon the strength of its individual members. Its success is dependent upon the needs of the many transcending the needs of the few." These are the words of Braintree Cooperative Bank President and CEO, Paul Pecci. After enjoying the opportunity to sit down with Pecci and some of the talented, dedicated and caring members of his team, I can validate that more true words have never been spoken. "Our community is drastically different than the community into which we were born over 126 years ago," says Pecci. "The Braintree Cooperative Back opened for business in 1889, in response to the growing need for the average worker to have a banking resource for depositing their hard-earned wages and to assist in the realization of their dreams of home ownership. We were born of the community, and have continued to serve the community throughout these many years. Our mission statement has remained community-based, regardless of how that community has changed." The Braintree Cooperative Bank is the last community bank in the town, yet it continues to grow. Pecci would know, as he has been with the bank for more than 26 years. "Our commitment to our community has never been stronger," says Pecci with great enthusiasm. "In an effort to meet the financial needs of our community, we continue to lend to both businesses and individuals alike, helping the small entrepreneur to grow their business successfully, or assisting a borrower to realize their dream of home ownership. Our bank has always been heavily involved in the community. Our mission is to serve the community, and that culture has been engrained in the people who work for us." One of those team members to whom Pecci is referring is Joanne Tully, who has been with Braintree Cooperative Bank for over 35 years and is the current Vice President / Chief Operating Officer. Tully Braintree Cooperative Bank Knows That It Takes a Team To Build a Community by Rob Kelley, photography by Eric Dresser "Community is like a living, breathing entity. Its strength is dependent upon the strength of its individual members. Its success is dependent upon the needs of the many transcending the needs of the few."~ Paul Pecci