DENVER–Westerra Credit Union has introduced a new logo, colors and enhancements to its website, as well as the addition of a new “Everyday Money” account.
The $1.9-billion credit union said the updated look and experience followed an “extensive” process that involved analyzing current market trends, receiving feedback from focus groups, engaging in discussions with members and staff, and conducting member and non-member surveys.
“We put a lot of time, effort, heart and soul into creating the new look for Westerra. We hope our members can feel how thoughtfully these changes were designed,” said Wade Paschall, chief marketing officer. “These new elements align with the digital-first approach to how we deliver financial services to our members.”
In addition to the rebrand, the credit union said it has introduced a number of new offerings, including:
- Elimination of all overdraft fees and non-sufficient funds fees on checking accounts. While Westerra has been waiving all fees since the pandemic began in March 2020, it said it has since permanently discontinued all overdraft and non-sufficient funds fees.
- Ability to open the new “Everyday Money” spending account in just five minutes. Westerra said it has launched a new “Everyday Money account featuring getting paid up to two days early when members have direct deposit, cash-back on purchases, fee-free overdrafts up to $200, free ATMs, no Visa foreign transaction fees, and no fees.
- Making Energy Efficiency Loans Affordable. Westerra said it has introduced options to make renewable energy home improvements affordable for members. Ranging from $500 up to $50,000 for primary, secondary or vacation homes, an Energy Efficiency Loan “can provide support for common energy efficient projects, such as solar panels or purchasing new ENERGY STAR appliances,” the credit union said.
- Offering a Close-On-Time Guarantee for Home Loans. “With the competitive real estate market, Westerra’s pre-approval process lets sellers and their agents know offers are ready to go, which provides the opportunity for buyers to compete against other offers, even cash offers,” the CU said, adding it is so confident in its process it guarantees home loans will close by the purchase contract closing date when all requirements are met or they will pay the buyer and seller $500 each at closing.
- Modernizing the Web Experience. A new website experience at www.westerracu.com.
- Providing Digital Tools for Financial Awareness. Honoring its educational roots, Westerra said it provides a variety of digital tools to help members learn to proactively manage their accounts. The CU said it also regularly conducts financial checkups with members to help them understand how to utilize these tools.
- Making Grants to Schools. Westerra also announces its next wave of school grants, and has now provided grants of approximately $500 each to 102 schools in 2021 to provide funds for projects and programs that might not otherwise be possible.
A ‘Transformation’
“We’re undergoing a transformation at Westerra,” said President/CEO Jay Champion. “Westerra already has a reputation for its commitment to education, top-notch service, and an excellent member experience. The changes we launch today demonstrate our commitment to our members, our community, and our environment—all through a digital-first approach to our changing world.”
Westerra has approximately 125,000 members.