The partnership between KeyBank and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound (BBBSPS) goes beyond collaboration. It is about building real connections and creating lasting impact. Driven by the shared mission of giving back to the community, KeyBank provides continuous support for BBBSPS through event sponsorship, fundraising, volunteering, and donation centers. As a regional bank, KeyBank is a great example of how organizations in financial institutions can make meaningful actions on social good and contribute their work to the community. We believe that when we come together, we will make a difference, and we are #BIGGERTogether.
Inform: Establishing Our Partnership
Our partnership with KeyBank began with a shared goal: to strengthen and support the local community. This connection naturally started with small volunteer activities then grew into an expansive collaboration. KeyBank has committed not just financially but also through significant social activities. The involvement of KeyBank plays an important role that supports BBBSPS to exceed project outcomes.
“We have grown into a deeper connection and strengthened our commitment to driving change together” – April Tomlinson, VP Regional Merchant Sales Manager at KeyBank & Hispanic-Latinx KBING Co- Leader.
KeyBank’s dedication to the community is also driven by its Key Business Impact Networking Groups (KBINGs). KBINGs are specialized employee networking groups designed to foster inclusivity, community engagement, and collaboration. Community involvement is one of the pillars of these affinity groups. The partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound helps KeyBank achieve its goals of building strong, genuine relationships and engaging with the community.
“In my role as co-leader of one of the affinity groups, a big part of our work is to help foster those community relationships. We aim to create connections that allow us to partner with organizations in a way that’s more than just transactional.” – Stated April.
Inspire: Empowering KeyBank’s Workforce
Beyond the positive impact on the community, this connection has inspired KeyBank leaders and its employees, motivating them to participate in volunteer work and community involvement. Internal teams within KeyBank and staff in different locations actively joined in various BBBSPS events, bringing them a strong sense of purpose and satisfaction.
This connection is further strengthened by the KBING affinity groups, which plays an essential role in organizing internal meetings and engaging staff for upcoming events. When a new project comes, it begins with the leadership group, who then reach out to other affinity group leaders to recruit additional volunteers. KBING leaders ensure that employees can participate meaningfully in the partnership, whether through volunteering or supporting events.
“It’s about the people, the connection, and the collaboration. It’s about leveraging that level of collaboration to have an impact” – April mentioned.
The donation bins are also a great way for KeyBank to demonstrate its community engagement. Currently, the bank hosts donation bins at six branches across the Puget Sound area, providing local residents with an accessible way to donate items. The bins collect gently used clothing, which is then sorted at Value Village and converted into funding to support BBBSPS. These donation centers are carefully planned and executed with the support of KeyBank Branch Managers and local leadership. We work closely together to select the most visible and accessible locations for the bins.
“The bins serve as a visual reminder of our commitment to community involvement and to the partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters.” – April.
Impact: The Results of Our Collaboration
Over the years, BBBSPS and KeyBank collaboration has grown in impact, showing how a well-structured, value-driven partnership can create long-term benefits. The donation bins at KeyBank branches have consistently collected between $1,000 and $2,000 each month, with some months seeing donations close to $4,000. The donation bins have proven to be an efficient and sustainable way to raise funds for BBBSPS.
Beyond their impact through donation bins, KeyBank teammates volunteer at BBBSPS events throughout the year. They actively participate in BBBSPS’s annual gala to raise funds and provide financial support. KeyBank teammates join our annual picnic event, helping us bring the community together. They also contribute through the Spirit of 12 Volunteer Program by selling Seattle Seahawks game tickets and raising funds for BBBSPS. KeyBank’s Hispanic-Latinx KBING frequently prepares gifts and school supplies for our Littles. These valuable activities not only drive community engagement but also contribute to a larger network of support for youth in our mentoring programs.
Our partnership with KeyBank is proof of the impact that community-focused collaborations can achieve. We invite you to learn more about KeyBank’s community involvement their website and explore opportunities to create lasting change in the lives of young people and families in our community.
Check out these KeyBank locations for donation centers:
- Maple Valley (Four Corners): 23905 SE Kent Kangley Rd, Maple Valley, WA 98038
- Maple Valley (Lake Wilderness): 23928 225th Way SE, Maple Valley, WA 98038
- Enumclaw: 1212 Cole St, Enumclaw, WA 98022
- Des Moines: 22033 Marine View Dr S, Des Moines, WA 98198
- Normandy Park: 17818 1st Ave S, Seattle, WA 98148
- Andover Park: 275 Andover Park W, Seattle, WA 98188
- Eastgate: 3240 156th Ave SE, Bellevue, WA 98007
