COMMONWEALTH NATIONAL BANK AWARDS $2,500 GRANT TO WHITIN COMMUNITY CENTER
Grant Will Support Summer Youth Theater Program


Northbridge, MA, March 2, 2005-Commonwealth National Bank (Commonwealth) (OTCBB:CWEA) has awarded a $2,500 grant to the Whitin Community Center (WCC) in Northbridge, which will support operational expenses for the 2005 Summer Youth Theater Program, a mini program provided under the auspices of the WCC Youth Outreach Program.

The WCC Summer Youth Theater Program provides youngsters age 8 to 13 years old, who have few options during the summer months, the opportunity to take part in a free, six-week theater program. For many of the participants who may never have had exposure to theatrical arts, the program presents an opportunity to meet personal challenges, to develop artistically, and to learn from positive role models.

According to WCC Director Charles E. Thompson, "We depend on charitable contributions to support this program that engages a full theatrical professional staff to provide up to 30 young people with a top-notch learning experience. While the program is funded in part through ticket sales and proceeds from the sale of concessions, it is the support of a major sponsor that ensures that this charitable program is available. We are grateful to our friends at Commonwealth National Bank for their support of our work and for helping to introduce youngsters such a broadening experience. The WCC Summer Youth Theater Program has become a staple in summer programs for our youngsters."

Andrea White, Senior Vice President and Chief Retail Officer of Commonwealth National Bank said, "We're very pleased to support the WCC Community Youth Summer Theater; we know this excellent program will have a positive impact on the young people involved, their families, and the community at large. We are proud to provide the opportunity for youngsters to engage in a meaningful, enriching summer program and to add to the quality of life for all in our community."

About Commonwealth National Bank

Commonwealth National Bank was the first new bank to open in the Worcester area in more than 15 years. Opened in December 2001, Commonwealth offers customers a traditional banking experience with high levels of personalized service, including extended business hours and internet-banking options. Commonwealth has branches in Worcester at 33 Waldo Street and 1 West Boylston Street, 564 Main Street, Shrewsbury and 701 Church Street in Northbridge.

For information about enrollment in this year's Summer Youth Theater Program musical, Kamp Kaos - a Stephen Murray production - with a rehearsal schedule set to begin in June for performances to take place July 29 and 30, please call WCC Assistant Director Brett MacGowan at 508-234-8184 ext. 305.



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