By Laurie Whittier
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

By the time KeyBank cut their grand opening ribbon at the Town Center Clubhouse, about 60% of Wind Crest’s residents had already opened up accounts. To celebrate their newest branch, Key- Bank hosted Wind Crest’s first happy hour, which drew nearly 100 people.

Among the attendees at KeyBank’s grand opening was Wind Crest Executive Director Craig Erickson, who opened up an account of his own after the ribbon cutting.

During a brief address to the crowd, he explained that Erickson communities typically attract smaller banks because these are usually the only ones willing to go the extra mile to provide services that appeal to older Americans. However, KeyBank—the 13th largest bank in the United States— was willing to work with Erickson to provide a variety of options that are just right for Wind Crest.

Services from A to Z
“We’re fortunate to have a full-service KeyBank branch right here at Wind Crest,” Erickson told the Tribune.

“Our residents and employees will be able to enjoy everything from basic banking services (including free safe deposit boxes) to more sophisticated financial planning programs.

KeyBank’s Wind Crest branch will offer the financial solutions of a large bank through a community bank model, providing our residents with personal attention to their finances.”

Among the products offered at the Wind Crest branch is a 12-month interest- only bridge loan, which  can assist incoming community members who need a little extra time paying their entrance deposit due to pending real estate sales.

A welcome convenience
Erickson said he couldn’t be happier with how the startup has gone. “Most of our residents are transferring their banking over to KeyBank within the first few weeks of their move, and some are even arranging it ahead of time,” he said.