In November, many high school seniors and their families are deep into college planning and beginning to think about how they’ll pay for it. Meanwhile, recent college graduates have begun repayment and may be thinking about their options. Here are some helpful resources: On your mark, get set, file your FAFSA The 2025-26 FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) will open to all students on or before December 1, 2024. Filling out the FAFSA is the only way to qualify for financial aid. Students should always aim for federal financial aid before obtaining private student loans. Students and their […]
Archives for 2024
Franconia Soaring Foundation Reaches New Heights with NH CDFA Tax Credit Assistance
On a recent beautiful fall day, a large blue and yellow motorless glider sat at the edge of a runway. The peak foliage made for breathtaking views at the Franconia Airport in the heart of the White Mountains. Tom Ganse, Franconia Soaring Foundation President, and other volunteers assisted with flight checks. Members of the Adaptive Sports Partners eagerly looked on as one of their participants took the passenger seat. A bright orange Cessna parked in front and a rope was hooked between them. With the glider in tow, the plane started its engine and picked up speed along the grass […]
New Beginnings to Host Annual Gala Fundraiser Nov. 16
New Beginnings – Without Violence and Abuse is set to host their annual fundraising gala “A Night of New Beginnings” at 5 pm Nov. 16 at the Belknap Mill in Laconia. Longtime supporter, MVSB, will serve as the Saving Lives Exclusive Sponsor for the event. “Everyone in our community deserves a safe environment to thrive in and we are so grateful to New Beginnings for the vital work they do to bring security and comfort to those in crisis,” said Tina Simpson, MVSB Vice President Commercial Loan Officer and New Beginnings Board Member. “This event is one of their most […]
Keep Your Identity Safe with Mutual Benefits
According to the Federal Trade Commission Consumer Sentinel Data Book, over 1 million identity theft cases were reported in the US in 2023. And with the recent reports of large scale data breaches potentially exposing the personal information of millions, those numbers are likely to climb. Mutual Members at Perks & Protection and Premier Perks & Protection levels receive access to identity theft tools and services with membership to help keep you safe. Log in at mymutualbenefits.com and visit the identity theft security center to take advantage of all of your protection benefits. Not yet a member? Learn more about […]
10 Tips to Protect Yourself from Fraud
According to the Better Business Bureau (BBB), thousands of new scams appear every year and it can be challenging to keep up with the latest tricks and techniques. It’s important to stay vigilant and look for warning signs, so they’ve shared these 10 tips can help keep you safe: Never send money via gift card or wire transfer to someone you have never met face-to-face. Avoid clicking on links or opening attachments in unsolicited emails. Don’t believe everything you see. Scammers are great at mimicking official seals, fonts, and other details. Just because a website or email looks official does […]
Be Vigilant When Donating to Hurricane Relief Efforts
During times of crisis, such as the devastating hurricanes in the southeast, scammers often take advantage of the kindness and generosity of those looking to help. Stay vigilant and follow these tips from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) before contributing:Contribute to organizations that are known to you and take time to do your research. Find out how your money will be spent and if it goes to the people the charity says it helps. Never donate to anyone who insists you pay by cash, gift card, wire or cryptocurrency. Be cautious about giving to individuals on crowdfunding sites. Read the […]
HOMEteam Receives Renewed Support from MVSB
We are proud to once again make a $5,000 donation to NeighborWorks Southern New Hampshire in support of HOMEteam. This innovative program provides essential education and resources for local residents to help them make good financial decisions when it comes to purchasing or maintaining a home. “We are grateful to MVSB for their continued partnership,” said Paul McLaughlin, HOMEteam Director. “Support from our community partners allows us to continue to provide education and resources to homebuyers at every stage of their housing process.” “HOMEteam is a wonderful program that truly gives a leg up to homebuyers looking for affordable housing, […]
Fundraising Underway to Support Furnishing of Bay Street Apartments
Lakes Region Community Developers (LRCD) and Lakes Region Mental Health Center (LRMHC) have joined forces to raise funds to furnish the new Bay Street Apartments in Laconia. The building is currently under construction with an anticipated completion in spring 2025 and will offer 12 efficiency units of housing for people of very low income who are experiencing or are at-risk of homelessness. We are proud to support this project with a $3,400 sponsorship that will furnish one of the new units. Carmen Lorentz, LRCD Executive Director, said they are still working toward their $45,000 goal. “We are seeking individual and business […]
Exeter Community Members Choose Victoria’s Victory Foundation in MVSB’s Vote for Your Favorite Nonprofit Contest
In honor of the grand opening of our new branch office at 2 Meeting Place Drive in Exeter, the community was invited to vote for a local nonprofit to receive a special $1,000 donation. Many nonprofits were nominated, but it was Victoria’s Victory Foundation (VVF) that received the most votes in the contest and was selected as the winner. Victoria’s Victory Foundation is a quality-of-life organization founded to support the needs of people living with mobility disabilities. The organization provides financial assistance and access to resources and services to allow those facing mobility challenges to focus on regaining and maintaining […]
Fraudulent Text Messages Appearing to Be from Your Local Bank
Community members are once again reporting fraudulent text messages claiming to be from local banks. In this scam, the text message asks the recipient to confirm a large transaction attempt on their bank account. To report the transaction as fraud, the recipient must click on a link bringing them to a fake webpage that prompts them to provide their online banking username and password. Remember: Never click on a suspicious link you receive by text and do not provide your account or online banking information in response to an unsolicited message. Doing so will put your phone, your accounts and […]
