April is Community Banking Month, a time to celebrate the role of local banks in our communities. While big banks may dominate the financial industry, community banks offer distinct advantages for consumers and businesses alike.
What are community banks?
Community banks, like Osgood Bank, are locally owned and operated financial institutions that serve a specific geographical area. Most are smaller than national banks and credit unions, but offer a more personalized approach to banking. Community banks focus on building relationships with their customers and making local decisions based on the needs of their communities. Since 1915, Osgood Bank has been proudly serving our corner of the world.
Benefits of community banking
Banking with a community bank offers many benefits. One of the biggest advantages is personalized service - you're not just a number in a database, but a valued member of our community. Community banks also tend to offer lower loan rates, higher deposit rates, and less fees than larger banks. Furthermore, community banks invest in their local economies, creating jobs and supporting local businesses. In fact, studies have shown that small businesses are more likely to get loans from community banks than larger banks.
Bank local
When you choose Osgood Bank, you get:
Personalized services. We are focused on building relationships with our customers and providing personalized services. We work hard to get to know our customers by name so we can offer customized solutions that meet their specific financial needs. This is especially valuable for small business owners and customers with complex financial situations.
Local decision-making. Community banks like us are typically more flexible in decision-making than larger banks. This can be particularly beneficial for small businesses and entrepreneurs who may have trouble obtaining loans from larger banks.
Community investment. Osgood Bank is committed to helping to better the communities we serve and contributing to local economic growth. Whether we are putting on one of our famous Gate events for a local school, opening a child's first savings account, funding your first home loan, or helping you plan for retirement, our focus is on helping our community members do well and be good.
Competitive products and rates. We like to say "we're big enough to serve you and small enough to know you". Osgood Bank has the products and services you need to help with your everyday banking needs. Checking account? We have those! In fact, ours come with ID Theft protection. Need tools to make operating your business easier? We have those too! Want to skip the trip and do your banking digitally? Great news, our online and mobile platforms are awesome! To us, you're not just a number. You're a neighbor, friend, and fellow human - we genuinely want to help make your life easier. 
Community involvement. Local banks are often much more involved in community events and support local charities and non-profit organizations. Last year Osgood Bank helped over 130 families with emergent needs and, through the Osgood Foundation, we helped support seven area schools, three food pantries, domestic shelters, law enforcement and other emergency departments, local libraries, and more.
By choosing Osgood bank, you are helping to build a stronger, more vibrant community and contributing to local economic growth. As we wind down Community Banking Month, we want to thank you for your continued support.
Do Well. Be Good. Give Back.
