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!"

Ribbon-cutting of the SRP Federal Credit Union Boardroom at the J.A. Discovery Center

SRP Federal Credit Union Unveils Branded Boardroom at JA Discovery Center

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Evans, GA – SRP Federal Credit Union and Junior Achievement (JA) Discovery Center of the CSRA celebrated the unveiling of the newly branded SRP Federal Credit Union Boardroom with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on January 31, 2025.

 

Located inside the JA Discovery Center on River Watch Parkway in Evans, GA, the boardroom will serve as a dedicated meeting space for JA and its corporate sponsors, further enhancing the center’s mission of financial literacy and career readiness for students.

 

The newly branded space features a striking wall dedicated to SRP’s High School Affinity Debit Card program, alongside a detailed timeline showcasing the credit union’s rich history.

 

SRP Federal Credit Union has been a proud founding partner of the JA Discovery Center of the CSRA since its opening in 2023.

 

The center provides hands-on financial education to students from the Columbia County School District and the Richmond County School System through interactive programs like JA Finance Park and JA BizTown. These simulations immerse students in a real-world economy, helping them develop essential skills in personal finance, entrepreneurship, and career planning.

 

Community Impact

Grace Helms, Assistant Vice President of Marketing, Communications, and Community Development at SRP Federal Credit Union, emphasized SRP’s ongoing commitment to financial education and community support.

 

“Junior Achievement's mission to provide financial education to young people aligns perfectly with our dedication to equipping individuals of all ages with essential financial skills,” said Helms. “By working together, we are helping to empower the next generation with the knowledge they need to build strong, financially sustainable futures.”

 

SRP Federal Credit Union remains committed to supporting Junior Achievement, with numerous SRP team members actively participating as past and present instructors in JA programs.

 

Laney Mize, Director of Development for Greater Augusta at Junior Achievement of Georgia said, “SRP has been a huge supporter of Junior Achievement through providing employee volunteers and funding.” 

 

“SRP influences and educates students, but also adult visitors as well,” said Mize. “The SRP Boardroom is a place where JA Partners can hold meetings and also learn the impressive history and culture of what SRP Federal Credit Union has to offer to the CSRA.”

SRP Distributes Over $3.9 Million in Loyalty Dividends

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North Augusta, SC – “Good Things Are Happening at SRP” as we share our Board of Directors has once again approved a Loyalty Dividend be paid out across our membership. The additional dividend payout of more than $3.9 million serves to reward SRP members and to recognize the financial strength of the Credit Union.

 

“This Loyalty Dividend reflects our commitment to giving back to the members who make SRP Federal Credit Union strong and successful,” said Eric Jenkins, CEO of SRP Federal Credit Union. “We are proud to share the benefits of our growth directly with our members.”

 

This also demonstrates SRP’s belief in the “People Helping People” credit union philosophy. SRP FCU is a member-owned nonprofit financial institution with a volunteer Board of Directors. As such, our members can receive higher interest rates on savings, lower rates on loans, and lower fees.

 

SRP and Augusta Tech Team Up for Financial Success for Students

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Augusta, GA – SRP Federal Credit Union will fund a new program at Augusta Technical College to cultivate financial success for students. Called SRP Cougar$mart, the program will enhance financial training for students in a variety of courses and other offerings at the college.

“As we prepare students to enter the workforce and create sustainable careers, we believe that increasing their financial literacy will better enable them to have lifelong financial wellbeing,” said Dr. Jermaine Whirl, President of Augusta Technical College.


The SRP Cougar$mart Program will include a co-branded interactive classroom learning environment. Augusta Tech students will benefit from the financial literacy curriculum embedded in the college’s new “Introduction to College and Computers” course, which is required for first-semester students. Additionally, the program will strengthen for-credit personal finance courses and create extracurricular learning opportunities for enrolled students, Dual Enrollment high school students and participants in Augusta Tech’s Adult Education and Continuing Education programs.


SRP Federal Credit Union frequently assists members facing financial difficulties stemming from decisions made early in adulthood. “Through Cougar $mart, we will help students not only avoid these costly types of financial mistakes but also teach them how to make the right decisions, which will lead to financial success,” said Eric Jenkins, CEO of SRP.


Cougar$mart is the second of three partnership initiatives being launched between SRP and Augusta Tech. The first initiative, announced earlier this month, is Accelerate Augusta Powered by SRP, a small business incubator that will be housed at 600 Broad Street to help entrepreneurs in the area launch their companies. The Downtown Development Authority is also a partner in this effort. The third initiative will be announced early in 2025.

 

SRP Assists Members Post Hurricane Helene

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North Augusta, SC – On September 27, 2024, Hurricane Helene brought severe devastation to the CSRA. With destructive winds, tornadoes, and extensive damage to utilities and homes, all ten counties served by SRP Federal Credit Union were significantly impacted.

 

In response to the recent challenges, SRP quickly stepped up to support both its member-owners and team members. Throughout the immediate aftermath, SRP provided Emergency Relief Loans, Skip-a-Pay options on consumer loans, and waived or refunded various operational fees. Many members were able to access relief through these emergency loans, and thousands took advantage of the opportunity to skip their loan payment, reducing immediate financial pressure to help with the burden during recovery. Through these efforts, SRP reaffirmed its commitment to standing by its community in times of need by providing nearly $13.6 million in relief to their members.

 

“SRP has always prioritized the needs of our members, especially in times of crisis,” said Eric Jenkins, CEO of SRP Federal Credit Union. “With so many affected by this disaster, our goal was to provide immediate, practical support to aid in their recovery. I am proud of how SRP has stepped forward to support our community through this challenging time.”

 

He continued, “We have witnessed a tremendous resilience among our team, members, and community. As the recovery progresses, SRP remains committed to supporting all as we rebuild and grow stronger together.”

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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 194,000 members. For more information on SRP Federal Credit Union, visit www.srpfcu.org.

 

Augusta Technical College Announces Major Gift from SRP Federal Credit Union

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Augusta Technical College, in partnership with the Downtown Development Authority of Augusta, proudly announces that SRP is the naming sponsor for Accelerate Augusta, the region’s newest small business incubator and microenterprise center.

SRP has made a significant multi-year commitment to support the project. As a result, the initiative will be referred to as “Accelerate Augusta Powered by SRP” for the next 10 years. SRP’s investment will provide furnishings and technology for the program, which will be headquartered at 600 Broad Street, as well as underwrite training programs for emerging businesses.

“SRP has long played a critical role in supporting businesses in the CSRA. We are delighted that they are committed to this hub for innovation and entrepreneurship,” said Dr. Jermaine Whirl, President of Augusta Technical College. “This is the first of a three-part partnership between the college and the credit union. We look forward to announcing additional projects within the next few months.”

Accelerate Augusta is poised to become a cornerstone for small business development, providing a dynamic space for entrepreneurs to thrive. Housed in the renovated I. M. Pei Building, situated in the heart of Downtown Augusta, the center will offer essential resources, mentorship, and opportunities for growth.

"Augusta Technical College is a driving force in the CSRA for enhancing workforce readiness and building economically stronger communities. Accelerate Augusta represents the next evolution of the college's ability to promote economic development by serving as a launching pad for entrepreneurs, startups and innovators. We are honored to forge a strategic partnership with Augusta Technical College on this initiative, which will have a generational impact on our communities," stated Eric Jenkins, CEO, SRP Federal Credit Union.

The search has begun for the founding director position, and renovations on 600 Broad Street will be completed by the end of the year.