The holidays are a special time that remind us of the importance of making a difference. This year, in the spirit of the Season of Giving, Popular Bank partnered with 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations the Acacia Network and the Violence Intervention Program, Inc. based in New York City and the FOCUS Hispanic Center for Community Development in Newark, New Jersey to celebrate the holidays with more than 400 community members.

The celebrations, which took place between December 2 – December 17, invited guest to enjoy a viewing of the 26^th annual Popular Music Special, along with traditional Puerto Rican holiday treats.

“Giving back to the areas we serve is at the heart of our Popular DNA,” said Chief Operating Officer Manuel Chinea. “We’re very proud to partner with these outstanding organizations to share this year’s music production and make the holiday season special. These celebrations help us to make a make a positive difference and build meaningful relationships within our communities.”

The annual Popular Music Special is an important tradition for Popular. The Special first aired in 1993 and is widely celebrated throughout Puerto Rico as a tradition marking the start of the holiday season. Each year, the Special is gifted to the public to celebrate the music and culture of Puerto Rico and Latin America.

“We’re honored to be part of this celebration that honors who we are, the people and the culture of Puerto Rico,” said Acacia Network President and CEO Raul Russi. “Every year [the Popular Music Special] is special and unique. I celebrate it every year and I congratulate Popular for [this production]. It really does tell the growing and changing story of who we are as a people.”

The effects of the Popular Music Special extend far beyond the holiday season. Each year, a portion of the proceeds earned from the sale of CDs and DVDs go on to support music education.

While this is the first year that Popular Bank teamed up with the Acacia Network, the Violence Intervention Program, Inc., and FOCUS Hispanic Center for Community Development to share the annual Music Special, Popular Bank has a long-standing tradition of giving back during the holiday season. Each year employees, customers, and community members come together to support the annual Volunteers of America Toy Drive, which benefits in-need and at-risk youth throughout New York City, as well as those with special needs attending the VoA school in the South Bronx. This year, Popular Bank hundreds of toys to this very worthy organization.

Employees also participate in an annual Secret Santa program, which helps to create a happy holiday season for displaced and homeless youth.

“Our employees do a tremendous job in giving back to our communities each year,” said Mr. Chinea. “I’m very proud of them and the difference we are able to make for so many families during the holidays.”