kƒ Ňü kþ Ïå Vera Sung volunteers at CITYarts, a public art organization for kids. Vera Sung: Standing up for community The director of the board at $350 million-asset Abacus Federal Savings Bank in New York City serves on two local committees and is active in CITYarts, a youth organization. My father always told my sisters and me that it is so important to give back to the community. Being part of the bank causes me to be aware of issues that our community is facing, which makes me want to be involved in the solution. There is a constant struggle to make sure that those in government are held accountable to the needs and troubles that face society as a whole. I have been on Community Board 1 (CB1) for almost eight years. [CB1 is one of 59 community boards in New York City.] On the Landmarks and Preservation Committee, we review applications to the Landmarks Preservation Commission. As someone who lives in a historic landmark 72 Q ICBA Independent Banker Q June 2019 neighborhood, I fi nd it especially relevant to comment and advise on such matters to ensure the historic nature and character of the neighborhood is preserved. CITYarts involves children locally and globally to create public art within their neighborhood. When children see how they can literally transform and beautify the area they live in, it gives them a special sense of ownership, pride and connection to their community. After 9/11, children painted a mural on a wall in the Lower East Side that was a dedication to those who passed away or helped to save lives during the attack. The park became a new place for all to enjoy and play in. -Frances Smith Photo: Dan Bigelow