Fun Seekers plans trips for bank customers

FORT SCOTT, Kan. -- Thanks to a program sponsored by a local bank, many local residents have had the chance to travel around the United States and the world.

The Citizens Bank Fun Seekers Travel Club was developed in 1990 as a way for the bank to show appreciation to its loyal customers, and has grown since that time, according to Cindy Schwalm, the coordinator of the travel program.

"The purpose was a 'thank you' to our loyal bank customers," she said. "It's for long-term customers exclusively and provides them with travel events and opportunities. The trips are used to promote benefits of being a bank member."

The club provides at least 10 trips each year for its members, who are at least 50 years of age. The group makes five trips each year to Kansas City to attend a dinner theatre, and also makes one trip each year to Branson, Mo. The schedule of trips also includes several long trips, including at least one visit each year to another country, Schwalm said.

Members also make at least one short mystery trip each year to a destination in the four-state area that is only known by coordinators.

There is no cost to become a member of the club -- members only pay the cost of the trip. Members of the club can also bring along guests who are not customers at the bank. Occasionally, individuals who are not customers at the bank may reserve seats on the trips if seats are available, Schwalm said.

The clubs consists of more than 740 members across the bank's service areas located throughout eastern Kansas. There are usually about 50 travelers on each bus trip, and the average attendance for trips involving flights is 30 people, she said.

Schwalm said she became coordinator of the program in March and while it is often a rewarding endeavor, it can also be "quite challenging."

"Some may think that the real benefit is the travel, which I have to admit is nice, but when I am the coordinator on these trips, it is a job and I have to stay focused on the trip and the travelers," she said.

Prior to each trip, Schwalm is responsible for taking care of trip promotions, as well as all of the financial aspects of the trip. She is also responsible for contacting travel companies and hotels, arranging for shows and other entertainment for travelers, and setting up a feasible itinerary that allows for food and restroom breaks and time to get travelers to their next destination without delays.

Travel is a benefit of her job, Schwalm said, but one of the best benefits is the numerous friends she has made and continues to make each day.