New SRP Affinity Debit Card - Thomson High School

Image features a debit card with a brick background design and the black and gold Thomson High School logo.

SRP Federal Credit Union Launches Thomson High School Affinity Debit Card

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Thomson, GA – Thomson High School has joined SRP Federal Credit Union’s growing Affinity Debit Card Program, an initiative that helps fund local education across Georgia and South Carolina.

 

Featuring the school’s black and gold logo and a unique brick pattern background, the Thomson High School Affinity Debit Card’s design honors the history and tradition of the Thomson Bulldogs.

 

"We are so pleased to partner with SRP Federal Credit Union in creating the new Thomson High School Affinity Debit Card,” said Dr. Mychele Rhodes, McDuffie County Superintendent of Schools. “The funds raised from this program will provide recognition for deserving Thomson High School students, encouraging them to achieve their academic goals."

 

The SRP Affinity Debit Card Program began in 2018 to help strengthen high schools with funding. Every time an SRP member makes a purchase with an Affinity Debit Card, SRP donates to the school designated on the card.

 

The addition of Thomson High School brings the total number of participating schools to 46, and each school’s Affinity Card features a unique design with school colors and logos.

 

Since its launch, the program has provided over $2 million in funding for public, charter, and private high schools in eight CSRA counties.

 

Participating schools have full discretion over how they use the Affinity donations, allowing them to allocate funds wherever they are needed most. These unrestricted funds have supported a wide range of needs, including computers, team uniforms, teacher certifications, student incentives, school equipment, and more.

 

Committed to the credit union philosophy of People Helping People, SRP Federal Credit Union remains committed to enhancing the communities it serves and uplifting local education through initiatives like the Affinity Debit Card Program.

 

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union, headquartered in North Augusta, SC, provides financial services to over 195,000 members. Recognized for excellence in business and community impact, SRP was recently named the 2024 Large Business of the Year by both the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce and the North Augusta Chamber of Commerce. For more information, visit www.srpfcu.org.

Representatives of USCA and SRP Federal Credit Union prepare to cut the ribbon on the newly designed Pacer $mart hallway and classroom.

USCA and SRP Federal Credit Union Unveil New Pacer $mart Classroom

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Aiken, SC – Representatives from SRP Federal Credit Union and the University of South Carolina Aiken gathered on March 21 to celebrate the unveiling of a newly designed classroom and hallway dedicated to financial education at the university.

 

The new learning space will host Pacer $mart, a financial education program created in partnership between SRP and USCA’s School of Business Administration. Designed to equip college and high school students with financial knowledge, the program covers key personal finance topics, including budgeting, saving, credit, investing, insurance, taxes, and economics.

 

“The Pacer $mart program is a testament to the power of partnership in shaping students’ financial futures,” said Dr. Daniel J. Heimmermann, Chancellor at USCA. “This newly designed space will serve as a dynamic hub for financial learning, equipping students with the knowledge and confidence to make informed financial decisions throughout their lives.”

 

Located inside USCA’s Business & Education building, the newly branded Pacer $mart classroom will serve as a hub for guest speakers, financial success camps, and other educational initiatives. The classroom and adjoining hallway feature wall murals that incorporate university and SRP branding, along with an inspiring quote from Benjamin Franklin: “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.”

 

SRP Federal Credit Union remains dedicated to the credit union philosophy of “People Helping People” by fostering financial education in the communities it serves. In addition to the Pacer $mart program, SRP provides personal financial education through seminars, financial counseling, school visits, and more.

 

“Uplifting our communities through financial education is a cornerstone of our mission at SRP,” said Liz Ponder, Interim CEO, SRP Federal Credit Union. “We are proud to partner with USC Aiken to empower students with the knowledge and skills they need for lifelong financial success.”

Representatives from SRP Federal Credit Union and Oakwood-Windsor Elementary School gather after dropping off shoes from SRP's shoe drive for OWES students.

SRP Foundation and SRP Team Members Provide New Shoes for Oakwood-Windsor Elementary Students

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Aiken County, SC – Every student at Oakwood-Windsor Elementary School received a brand-new pair of shoes at an assembly on March 17, thanks to the generosity of SRP Federal Credit Union team members and the support of the SRP Foundation.

 

The initiative, led by Interim CEO Liz Ponder and team member Tonya Edge, brought together employees from various departments and branches to donate hundreds of shoes. Board Chair Sandra DeVoe Bland, the Board of Directors and the SRP Foundation also played a vital role in ensuring every child received a new pair.

 

This collaborative effort extended beyond SRP, as Oakwood-Windsor Elementary’s teachers, staff, and families worked together to provide shoe sizes and favorite colors for each student. By the end of the school day, every child left with a new pair of shoes and an extra sense of confidence.

Students at Oakwood-Windsor Elementary School try out their new shoes, donated by SRP Federal Credit Union.
Oakwood-Windsor Elementary students try out their new sneakers. Every student at Oakwood-Windsor received a new pair of shoes from SRP's shoe drive.

“At Oakwood-Windsor Elementary, we embrace the fact that in order to grow a child’s academic brain, we must also nurture their physical, social, and emotional well-being,” said Davina Truitt, Principal of Oakwood-Windsor Elementary School. “It truly takes a village to accomplish this, and at OWES, we have the absolute best village around! We are extremely thankful for community partners like SRP Federal Credit Union, who recognize that the future of the world is in our classrooms and are helping to make a difference—one Wise Owl at a time.”

 

Kristen Mulvey, School Counselor at Oakwood-Windsor, echoed the sentiment: “Our students come from all walks of life, and they know better than anyone that it takes a village to help raise children to be successful. We are so grateful to SRP for helping our Wise Owls walk a little taller, feel more confident in their step, and know that the adults in their lives truly care about their well-being.”

 

Liz Ponder, Interim CEO of SRP Federal Credit Union, expressed appreciation for the generosity of SRP’s team members and the lasting impact of the initiative. “At SRP Federal Credit Union, we believe in the power of community and the importance of giving back. Seeing the joy on the children’s faces as they received their brand-new shoes was truly heartwarming. Every child deserves to walk with confidence, and we are honored to support our local students in such a meaningful way. This shoe drive is a testament to what we can achieve when we come together to make a difference.”

 


SRP Federal Credit Union, headquartered in North Augusta, SC, provides financial services to over 195,000 members. Recognized for excellence in business and community impact, SRP was recently named the 2024 Large Business of the Year by both the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce and the North Augusta Chamber of Commerce.

 

The SRP Foundation, a nonprofit organization established by SRP Federal Credit Union in 2024, serves as a resource to nonprofit organizations and initiatives that support positive change with passion and commitment to the quality of life in our communities.  The SRP Foundation focuses on human services, healthcare, housing, education and those initiatives that empower individuals to overcome barriers and pursue a better life. 

 

For more information, visit www.srpfcu.org.

SRP and Augusta Technical College representatives join for a photo.

SRP employees Yvonne Meeks, Shana Reid, and Grace Helms join Augusta Technical College President Dr. Jermaine Whirl with the new SRP Affinity Debit Card for the Augusta Technical College Foundation.

Augusta Technical College and SRP Federal Credit Union Strengthen Partnership to Support Education and Economic Growth

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Augusta, GA – Augusta Technical College and SRP Federal Credit Union continue to expand their partnership, reinforcing their shared commitment to education, financial wellness, and community development. Their latest collaboration introduces the Augusta Technical College Foundation Affinity Debit Card, offering alumni, students, and supporters a new way to give back to the college with every purchase.

 

The newly launched debit card, featuring Augusta Tech’s logo and signature forest green, mint, and white color palette, is part of SRP’s Affinity Debit Card Program—an initiative that donates a portion of every transaction to local schools. Augusta Technical College is the first higher education institution to participate in the program, which has already provided over $2 million in funding to public, charter, and private high schools across eight CSRA counties.

 

Funds raised through the Augusta Technical College Affinity Debit Card will directly support the Augusta Technical College Foundation, which provides scholarships, faculty development, and resources to enhance student success.

 

“The SRP debit card program is a wonderful opportunity for the college's 30,000+ alumni and friends to support the college in their daily lives,” said Dr. Jermaine Whirl, President of Augusta Technical College. “SRP has been a terrific partner by supporting Accelerate Augusta, financial literacy, and other programs at the college. With the debit cards, they are making it easy for everyone to contribute to Augusta Tech’s continuing success.”

 

The new debit card is the latest in a series of collaborative efforts between Augusta Tech and SRP. In late 2024, the two institutions launched SRP Cougar$mart, a financial education program designed to equip students with essential money management skills. Additionally, SRP serves as the naming sponsor for Accelerate Augusta, a small business incubator and microenterprise center developed in partnership with the Downtown Development Authority of Augusta.

 

By expanding its collaboration with Augusta Technical College, SRP Federal Credit Union continues to embody the credit union philosophy of People Helping People, ensuring that students, educators, and entrepreneurs have access to the resources they need to thrive.

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SRP Federal Credit Union, headquartered in North Augusta, SC, provides financial services to over 195,000 members. Recognized for excellence in business and community impact, SRP was recently named the 2024 Large Business of the Year by both the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce and the North Augusta Chamber of Commerce. For more information, visit www.srpfcu.org.

SRP team members and representatives of the North Augusta Chamber of Commerce pose for a photo on stage at the chamber's annual meeting and awards gala.
Image provided by the North Augusta Chamber of Commerce.

SRP Federal Credit Union Named 2024 Large Business Partner of the Year by North Augusta Chamber of Commerce

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North Augusta, SC – The North Augusta Chamber of Commerce recognized SRP Federal Credit Union with the 2024 Large Business Partner of the Year award at its Annual Meeting and Awards Gala on March 6, 2025.

 

This prestigious award honors outstanding local business champions in North Augusta for their involvement in the Chamber and the broader community.

 

"We are thrilled to be recognized as the North Augusta Chamber of Commerce’s 2024 Large Business Partner of the Year," said Shana Reid, Chief Development Officer of SRP Federal Credit Union. “Good things are happening at SRP, and we strive to make a difference every day in our local communities.”

 

Headquartered in North Augusta, South Carolina, SRP Federal Credit Union serves as a trusted financial institution and advocate for the city’s economic growth. SRP supports the Chamber of Commerce through sponsorships, event participation, and collaborative initiatives that empower the local business environment.

 

Additionally, multiple SRP team members, both past and present, have served on the North Augusta Chamber Board and its committees, strengthening the credit union’s ties to the business community. SRP team members have also participated in the Leadership North Augusta program, fostering leadership development and civic engagement.

 

SRP Federal Credit Union remains dedicated to making a meaningful impact in North Augusta and surrounding CSRA communities, a testament to SRP’s dedication to the credit union philosophy of “People Helping People.” In 2024 alone, SRP contributed nearly $1 million in donations to support community initiatives in the CSRA, and SRP team members collectively volunteered more than 6,500 hours.

 

For more information about SRP Federal Credit Union and its services, please visit srpfcu.org or contact 803-278-4851.

SRP Federal Credit Union board members and executives join local leaders to break ground on the future Allendale branch. The group is lined up behind a dirt mound with the SRP logo painted in the center. The participants are holding shovels.

SRP Federal Credit Union Breaks Ground on Future Allendale, SC Branch

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Allendale, SC – SRP Federal Credit Union marked a significant milestone with a groundbreaking ceremony for its upcoming branch in Allendale, SC. The new location, expected to be completed by winter 2025, will expand SRP’s presence in Allendale County, providing a welcoming and accessible space for individuals, families, and businesses seeking financial services.

 

“Today, we are not just breaking ground on a new building,” said Eric Jenkins, CEO of SRP Federal Credit Union, during the ceremony. “We’re laying the foundation for stronger financial futures and enhanced opportunities for all members of this community.”

 

Designed by Heavener & Associates Construction Company, the Allendale branch will feature four teller stations and four offices for Member Service Representatives to accommodate the growing needs of local members. The Augusta, GA-based firm will also oversee the construction of the facility.

 

Once completed, the Allendale branch will become SRP Federal Credit Union’s southernmost location, increasing accessibility to financial services for the community. This expansion will bring SRP’s total number of branches across Georgia and South Carolina to 21.

 

The groundbreaking ceremony brought together local leaders, community partners, and SRP Federal Credit Union’s executive team and Board of Directors, all gathered to celebrate this exciting development.

 

“This milestone would not have been possible without the unwavering dedication of our team, our partners, and our members who have placed their trust in us,” said Jenkins. “We also extend our gratitude to the local government and construction team for their collaboration in bringing this vision to life.”

 

SRP Federal Credit Union remains committed to strengthening the communities it serves, and the upcoming Allendale branch is another step in its ongoing mission to provide exceptional financial services to its member-owners.

 

For more information about SRP Federal Credit Union and its services, visit www.srpfcu.org.

SRP employees volunteering at The Master's Table soup kitchen in Downtown Augusta.
SRP team members stop for a photo after volunteering at The Master's Table in Augusta, GA. The soup kitchen, run by Golden Harvest Food Bank, is one of many locations where SRP volunteers helped the community in 2024.

SRP Federal Credit Union Invests Over $1 Million and Thousands of Volunteer Hours in Local Communities

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NORTH AUGUSTA, SC – SRP Federal Credit Union reinforced its commitment to community support in 2024, contributing more than $1 million in donations and dedicating thousands of volunteer hours across their 10-county service area in Georgia and South Carolina.

 

“At SRP Federal Credit Union, we exist to make the people we serve and the communities we serve better,” said Eric Jenkins, CEO of SRP Federal Credit Union. “We take great pride in our role as a community partner. We are honored to support organizations that make an impact in the lives of our members and neighbors.”

 

In 2024, SRP team members actively participated in 484 community events and volunteer initiatives, collectively contributing 6,585 hours of service. Their efforts supported a wide range of causes, including hunger relief, education, financial wellness, and other critical community needs.

 

In addition to hands-on service, SRP’s financial contributions played a vital role in enhancing local communities. Donations helped fund education, healthcare, financial wellness programs, and charitable organizations. Several local high schools benefited from SRP’s Affinity Debit Card Program, which provides funding through member participation.

 

Guided by the credit union philosophy of "People Helping People," SRP remains dedicated to strengthening the communities it serves. As the organization looks ahead to 2025, it remains committed to making a lasting, positive impact.

 

Rated one of only twenty-two credit unions nationwide with a top rating by Weiss Financial Ratings, SRP Federal Credit Union is headquartered in North Augusta, SC, and provides financial services to more than 197,000 members. For more information about SRP Federal Credit Union’s community initiatives, visit www.srpfcu.org.

Louisiana Wright Sanders (left), member of the SRP Federal Credit Union Board of Directors, and Lauren Whaley, President/CEO of the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation, hold Wright Sanders's 2024 Advancing Equity Award together for a photo.

SRP Federal Credit Union’s Louisiana Wright Sanders Receives 2024 Advancing Equity Award

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North Augusta, SC – SRP Federal Credit Union is thrilled to announce that Louisiana Wright Sanders, a dedicated volunteer member of the Board of Directors, has been honored with the 2024 Advancing Equity Award by the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation. This prestigious award recognizes individuals, organizations, or community partners who embody the credit union industry’s eighth Cooperative Principle of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, making proactive efforts to cultivate a sense of belonging for all.

 

The Advancing Equity Award celebrates those who implement fair and equitable policies, products, and initiatives that enhance the well-being of employees, members, and surrounding communities. Mrs. Wright Sanders’ commitment to advancing these principles has made a lasting impact, both within SRP Federal Credit Union and in the broader community.

 

A trailblazer with a remarkable personal story of determination and inspiration, Mrs. Wright Sanders has devoted her career to championing equitable access and opportunities. Elected to SRP’s Board of Directors in 1992, she made history as the first person of color to serve on the Board. From the start, Mrs. Wright Sanders committed to advocating for fairness and working tirelessly to ensure that every voice is heard and represented.

 

In addition to her work on the Board of Directors, Mrs. Wright Sanders has led several initiatives to foster equity within the credit union. She has strongly advocated for fair and equal pay for all SRP team members.  Shortly after being elected, she played a key role in securing funding to provide financial literacy programs for people of color, aiming to improve access to loan approvals. Furthermore, she has focused on continuing to diversify representation in leadership by actively recruiting individuals from underrepresented backgrounds to serve on boards and in leadership roles, ensuring more voices are included in decision-making processes.

 

Beyond her contributions to SRP, Mrs. Wright Sanders has long been an advocate for social justice and inclusivity in the community. She is a founding member of the African American Credit Union Coalition (AACUC), has served as the Second Vice President of NAACP’s Aiken Branch, and as the Secretary of the Internal Affairs Committee for the NAACP’s South Carolina Conference of Branches.  Currently, she serves on the University of South Carolina Aiken’s Inclusion Advisory Council, further demonstrating her unwavering commitment to creating more inclusive spaces for all.

 

“Louisiana’s passion for advancing equity and inclusion shines through in everything she does,” said Eric Jenkins, Chief Executive Officer, of SRP Federal Credit Union. “Her leadership and tireless advocacy inspire us all to do better, be better, and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to thrive. We are incredibly proud of her and all that she continues to achieve.”

 

SRP Federal Credit Union congratulates Mrs. Wright Sanders on this well-deserved recognition and looks forward to her continued leadership in promoting equity and inclusion within the organization and the community.

 

Rated one of only twenty-two credit unions nationwide with a top rating by Weiss Financial Ratings, SRP Federal Credit Union is headquartered in North Augusta, SC, and provides financial services to more than 197,000 members. For more information on SRP Federal Credit Union, visit www.srpfcu.org.

Georgia Kids Win Big: GCFLF and SRP Credit Union Create Financial Futures

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Augusta, GA – Georgia's students are gaining financial independence through an innovative collaboration. 200 children will receive financial literacy tools and their own bank accounts, with $5,000 in deposits distributed among participants.

 

SRP Federal Credit Union and the Global Children's Financial Literacy Foundation (GCFLF) have teamed up for a financial wellness book drive on April 17 and 18 in Waynesboro and Augusta.

 

“By giving kids a stake in their financial future, we're teaching concepts and creating opportunities for them to see what's possible," says Prince Dykes, founder of GCFLF. In similar programs, students reported feeling more confident about saving and investing, with kids saying they felt like they could really manage their money.

 

Students will be provided with complimentary editions of the Wesley Learns financial literacy series courtesy of SRP. The collaboration provides real-world financial experience that builds confidence and inspires lifelong economic success. Its goal is to break poverty cycles, foster wealth, and empower families with lasting opportunities.

 

“SRP Federal Credit Union is committed to fostering financial literacy across all age groups through various programs. We're especially glad to partner with GCFLF on this project," says Grace Helms, Assistant Vice President of Marketing, Communications & Community Development.

 

Georgia ranks 11th in the U.S. for millionaire households. This program ensures local children gain the knowledge and resources to build wealth and strengthen their community's economic future.

 

Reaching New Cities - Expanding the Impact

Starting in Georgia, the initiative will expand nationwide through an April book drive. It plans to donate 2,500 books and create first-time shareholders in five cities: Atlanta, Denver, New York City, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C. As the program grows, GCFLF seeks new partners to sponsor book drives and teach personal finance basics.

About the Global Children’s Financial Literacy Foundation (GCFLF)

GCFLF equips young people with financial literacy tools to help them succeed. Through its Wesley Learns series and partnerships, it transforms students into first-time shareholders and confident money managers.

 

For more information, visit GCFLF.org or contact info@gcflf.org. The founders, Prince Dykes and Chadrick Davis, are available for interviews.

 

Rated one of only twenty-two credit unions nationwide with a top rating by Weiss Financial Ratings, SRP Federal Credit Union is headquartered in North Augusta, SC, and provides financial services to more than 197,000 members. For more information on SRP Federal Credit Union, visit www.srpfcu.org.

SRP team members join representatives of the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce on stage to accept the 2024 Large Business of the Year award.

SRP Named 2024 Large Business of the Year by Columbia County Chamber of Commerce

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EVANS, GA – The Columbia County Chamber of Commerce honored SRP Federal Credit Union with the 2024 Large Business of the Year award at its 20th Anniversary Celebration and Annual Awards Banquet on February 6, 2025.

 

This prestigious annual award recognizes outstanding local businesses for their involvement in both the Columbia County Chamber and the broader community.

 

Eric Jenkins, CEO of SRP Federal Credit Union, expressed his gratitude for the recognition, "SRP attributes its success to a strong foundation built by our member-owners, dedicated staff, supportive management team, and Board of Directors."

 

Jenkins emphasized SRP’s community-focused mission, stating, "Every aspect of our operations is centered around People Helping People. Our holistic approach to business is at the heart of our continued success and allows us to make a lasting difference in the communities we call home."

 

SRP Federal Credit Union has been deeply involved with the Columbia County Chamber since its inception. The credit union’s contributions include a nine-year presenting sponsorship of the Leadership Columbia County program, as well as multiple team members serving in Chamber Board leadership roles.

 

True to the credit union philosophy of “People Helping People,” SRP remains committed to making a meaningful impact in the community. In 2024 alone, SRP contributed nearly $1 million in donations to support various initiatives, while team members collectively volunteered more than 6,500 hours.

 

"We strive to make a difference every day as your local credit union, and we are truly honored to be recognized as the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce’s 2024 Large Business of the Year," said Jenkins. "Good things are happening at SRP!"