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Bank to spearhead complimentary virtual courses and provide educational resources to support surrounding neighborhoods in need
Centennial Bank – the customer-focused bank, servicing Florida’s Southwest, Central and Southeast markets – is pleased to announce the launch of its financial literacy program. In partnership with GreenPath Financial Wellness, a national nonprofit focused on financial wellness, and Banzai Inc., an interactive, award-winning course on real-world finance, the complimentary program will empower communities the bank serves by providing valuable resources to foster financial education for all, from homebuyers to students and retirees. The COVID-19 pandemic not only impacted physical wellness but shined a light on the importance of financial health.
As part of utilizing Banzai Inc.’s platform, Centennial Bank lenders will collaborate with more than 43 schools throughout Florida, from Miami to Orlando, to lay the groundwork for the next generation’s knowledge of essential topics, such as earning income, using credit, and budgeting. When asked “What high school-level course would benefit your life the most?”, the National Financial Educators Council reports that young Americans chose money management more than all other options combined.
“As we continue to grow Centennial Bank’s footprint, we must equally foster our commitment to supporting the communities around our branches,” said David Druey, Florida regional president for Centennial Bank. “One of our core values centers on bolstering our neighborhoods and investing in the financial education needed for both customers and locals to thrive. This program will provide essential resources, without the burden of a cost, that are often overlooked, yet have a positive, long-term impact.”
Centennial Bank’s partnerships ensure that support is given to those in most need. Each participating school has 51 percent or more of students receiving free or reduced lunch, a federal initiative for children of families earning at or below 130 percent of the poverty level. In addition to virtual finance lessons, partner schools will gain access to an online education center that can be integrated into daily classroom lesson plans.
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought a renewed emphasis on the importance of preparing for the unknown by managing one’s financial future. Centennial Bank will also be hosting ‘The American Dream,’ a monthly, first-time homebuyer course the third Thursday of each month. The record low interest rates in recent months have drawn several renters to consider homeownership, in turn seeking tools to better understand the breakdown of costs, credit score requirements, mortgage options, and more. Hosted by Centennial Bank’s mortgage loan experts, the course will answer the most frequently asked questions from buyers and guide them through the components of homeownership.
“People don’t have to go it alone. Getting trusted information about housing financing options helps people reduce uncertainty and stress, especially during the challenges of the ongoing pandemic,” notes Kristen Holt, President and CEO of GreenPath Financial Wellness. “We encourage people to attend these sessions to understand the options that work for them and their specific financial situation.”
Those interested in participating in these complimentary courses can visit https://www.my100bank.com/mortgage/mortgage-webinars/ or a Centennial Bank branch for detailed information, as well as to obtain a workbook on various finance-based topics, such as credit score and identity theft.
