SRP's Diamond Awards in Brand Awareness, New Event, and Product or Promotional Video

SRP Federal Credit Union Receives Diamond Awards Honoring Marketing Excellence

 

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North Augusta, SC – SRP Federal Credit Union was among 181 credit unions nationwide recognized as winners of the prestigious Diamond Awards, an annual competition hosted by America's Credit Unions Marketing, PR & Development Council that recognizes excellence in credit union marketing.

SRP received recognition in the following categories:

  • New Event (Category’s Best winner) – “Walking with Confidence: SRP Shoe Giveaway”
  • Product or Promotional Video – “Great Stories Start Small”
  • Brand Awareness – “Spotted Program”

America’s Credit Unions Marketing, PR & Development Council announced the winners of this year’s Diamond Awards, honoring the most effective and innovative marketing campaigns across the credit union industry.

 

This year’s competition drew a record 1,481 submissions, with 181 organizations from 42 states selected as winners. In total, 330 awards were distributed, reflecting the exceptional quality of work produced by credit unions nationwide.

 

“We are incredibly honored to be recognized among the best in the credit union marketing industry. These awards reflect our team’s ongoing commitment to telling SRP Federal Credit Union’s story and uplifting the communities and members we serve,” said Shana Reid, Chief Development Officer of SRP Federal Credit Union.

SRP submitted entries that reflect the organization’s dedication to the credit union philosophy of “People Helping People.”

During the “Walking with Confidence” event, SRP board members and employees across the credit union’s branches and departments donated a new pair of shoes for every student at Oakwood-Windsor Elementary School in Aiken, SC, meeting an immediate and meaningful need for local children.

 

SRP’s “Great Stories Start Small” 60-second commercial highlights how SRP supports members through important life stages, from opening their first savings accounts and securing car loans to reaching milestones like marriage and homeownership.

 

The SRP Spotted program, recognized in the Brand Awareness category, rewards members who display an SRP sticker or magnet on their vehicle with a chance to win $100. SRP employees spot these vehicles throughout the credit union’s 10-county field of membership, engaging with members and surprising them with $100 cash.

 

“We are proud to recognize SRP Federal Credit Union and this year’s Diamond Award winners for their entries that deliver both creativity and results,” said Lorrell Bellotti, Diamond Awards Co-chair and Chief Marketing Officer at Western Vista FCU in Cheyenne, Wyoming. “These entries demonstrate an understanding of the people we serve and strategic execution that delivers measurable impact.”

Two business professionals hold Diamond Awards.
SRP Marketing and Communications Manager Josh Rhoden and SRP Chief Development Officer Shana Reid receive the Diamond Awards on behalf of SRP Federal Credit Union. The credit union's "Walking With Confidence: SRP Shoe Giveaway" event won the category's best award.

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union is headquartered in North Augusta, South Carolina, and provides a full range of financial services to more than 200,000 members. SRP serves the banking needs of individuals, families, and businesses across 10 counties in Georgia and South Carolina. Recognized for its commitment to member service and community impact, SRP was recently named Best-In-State Credit Union in Georgia by Forbes and one of America’s Best Credit Unions in South Carolina by Newsweek. For more information, visit www.srpfcu.org.

About America’s Credit Unions

America’s Credit Unions is the unified voice for not-for-profit credit unions, representing more than 95% of the industry's assets and more than 145 million members nationwide. America’s Credit Unions provides strong advocacy, resources and services to advance, empower, and protect credit unions and the people and communities they serve. For more information about America’s Credit Unions, visit AmericasCreditUnions.org.

About Councils

Councils is a member-led, collaborative community of credit union leaders providing vibrant peer interaction, new ideas, and innovation to foster professional development while advocating for the overall success of the credit union movement. There are eight Councils with a network of more than 7,000 credit union professionals. For more information, visit americascreditunions.org/councils.

 
 
SRP Federal Credit Union employees, along with SRP Board of Directors Chairman Sandra DeVoe Bland, gather outside SRP's Administrative Campus for Shred Fest.

“Shred Fest” at SRP Federal Credit Union Securely Disposes of Nearly 9 Tons of Paper

 

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North Augusta, SC – More than 550 vehicles lined up at SRP Federal Credit Union’s Administrative Campus on Saturday, March 14 for Shred Fest, a community event hosted by SRP for secure document disposal.

 

With three shred trucks from Augusta Data Storage, Shred Fest accepted, processed, and securely disposed of 17,780 pounds of unwanted documents, mail, and paperwork from participants.

Two people hold a trash bag over a bin.
Sandra DeVoe Bland, SRP Board Chairman, and Tyler Whisnant, SRP Member Service Representative, empty a bag of documents into a bin for disposal. Augusta Data Storage supplied shredding services for the event.

Employees across SRP’s branches and departments joined together to serve the community at Shred Fest. From registering visitors to loading bins with documents, 36 SRP team members dedicated their Saturday morning to ensuring the event’s success.

 

Due to the popularity of the event, SRP has scheduled two additional Shred Fest dates for 2026: May 16 and October 17.

 

“At SRP, we are guided by the credit union philosophy of ‘People Helping People.’ Shred Fest helps our members and the community prevent identity theft by securely disposing of sensitive documents,” said Josh Rhoden, Marketing and Communications Manager at SRP Federal Credit Union. “We are grateful for the opportunity to provide this important service.”

A man holds an empty trash bag and a folder labeled "TRASH" over a bin.
SRP Teller Ajay Krishnakumar helps prepare documents for secure disposal. Team members across SRP's branches and departments assisted with Shred Fest.

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union is headquartered in North Augusta, South Carolina, and provides a full range of financial services to more than 200,000 members. SRP serves the banking needs of individuals, families, and businesses across 10 counties in Georgia and South Carolina. Recognized for its commitment to member service and community impact, SRP was recently named Best-In-State Credit Union in Georgia by Forbes and one of America’s Best Credit Unions in South Carolina by Newsweek. For more information, visit www.srpfcu.org.

 
 
The green-on-white SRP logo

SRP Federal Credit Union Named to Newsweek’s America’s Best Regional Banks & Credit Unions 2026

 

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North Augusta, SC – SRP Federal Credit Union has been recognized by Newsweek as one of America’s Best Regional Banks and Credit Unions 2026, reflecting SRP’s strong impact and commitment to excellence, service, and uplifting local communities.

 

The prestigious list, developed by Newsweek in partnership with Plant-A Insights Group, recognizes financial institutions that help power local economies by supporting small businesses, financing community projects, and providing reliable access to everyday banking services.

 

“More than financial service providers, credit unions are community partners, showing up in neighborhoods, participating in local initiatives, and helping strengthen the connections that bind their members together,” said Jennifer H. Cunningham, Editor-in-Chief of Newsweek.

 

Founded in 1960, SRP Federal Credit Union serves more than 200,000 members across a 10-county field of membership in Georgia and South Carolina. From providing financial education resources for community members of all ages to supporting local charitable organizations, SRP strives to embody the credit union philosophy of “People Helping People.”

 

“Being recognized in Newsweek’s America’s Best Regional Banks and Credit Unions is a tremendous honor,” said Shana Reid, Chief Development Officer for SRP Federal Credit Union. “At SRP, we are committed to serving our members with excellence while improving lives throughout the communities we serve. This recognition reflects the dedication of our ambassadors, whose hard work and passion bring our mission to life each day. Good things are happening at SRP.”

 

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union is headquartered in North Augusta, South Carolina, and provides a full range of financial services to more than 200,000 members. SRP serves the banking needs of individuals, families, and businesses across 10 counties in Georgia and South Carolina. Recognized for its commitment to member service and community impact, SRP was recently named Best-In-State Credit Union in Georgia by Forbes and one of America’s Best Credit Unions in South Carolina by Newsweek. For more information, visit www.srpfcu.org.

 
SRP and community leaders pose for a ribbon-cutting ceremony photo in front of SRP Federal Credit Union's new Allendale, SC branch.

SRP Federal Credit Union Celebrates New Allendale, SC Branch

 

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Allendale, SC – SRP Federal Credit Union celebrated the opening of a new SRP branch in Allendale, South Carolina with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, February 18th.


Local leaders and community members joined SRP Federal Credit Union executives in commemorating the new branch location, which offers a welcoming, accessible space for financial services in the Allendale community.


At 224 Flat St. E, the SRP Allendale Branch is located at the heart of the community, offering convenient services near commercial and residential areas.


SRP Federal Credit Union is committed to making financial services accessible across its field of membership. The Allendale branch brings SRP Federal Credit Union’s total number of branch locations to 21.


SRP CEO Liz Ponder said the new branch reflects SRP’s continued growth and investment in communities like Allendale.


“This branch represents our commitment to providing stronger financial futures, expanded access to services, and a trusted place for members to manage, grow, and protect their finances,” said Ms. Ponder. “Today, we cut a ribbon. Tomorrow, we grow a legacy – together.”

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union is headquartered in North Augusta, South Carolina, and provides a full range of financial services to more than 200,000 members. SRP serves the banking needs of individuals, families, and businesses across 10 counties in Georgia and South Carolina. Recognized for its commitment to member service and community impact, SRP was recently named Best-In-State Credit Union in Georgia by Forbes and one of America’s Best Credit Unions in South Carolina by Newsweek. For more information, visit www.srpfcu.org.

 

SRP Board Member Louisiana Wright Sanders Honored in 5th Annual Umoja Village Celebrates Black Excellence Calendar

 

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Graniteville, SC – In a celebration of unity and achievement, Aiken-based nonprofit Umoja Village honored SRP Federal Credit Union board member Louisiana Wright Sanders in the 5th Annual Umoja Village Celebrates Black Excellence wall calendar.

 

Umoja Village recognized Ms. Wright Sanders alongside fellow honorees at the 2026 Black History Month Community Celebration at the USC Aiken Convocation Center held on Sunday, February 15th. SRP Federal Credit Union served as the presenting sponsor for the event.

 

The calendar's 2026 theme, "Community Influencers," reflects Ms. Wright Sanders's decades of trailblazing civic and professional contributions in Aiken County and South Carolina.

 

"I am deeply honored to be recognized by Umoja Village alongside so many individuals who are making a meaningful difference in our community," said Ms. Wright Sanders. "This recognition reflects the collective work of so many people committed to service and progress."

 

Ms. Wright Sanders has served on the SRP Federal Credit Union Board of Directors for over 33 years. After working as a teller and in the accounting department at SRP, she first ran for the board in 1991 - at the time, there were no people of color or women represented. She currently serves as a member of the Executive Committee, Secretary of the Board, and Chair of the Member Relations Committee.

 

At SRP, Ms. Wright Sanders has provided a consistent voice on the board for underrepresented groups, leading the charge to create opportunities for African Americans to serve in SRP leadership. In 2024, the Carolinas Credit Union Association recognized her achievements with the Advancing Equity Award.

 

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union is headquartered in North Augusta, South Carolina, and provides a full range of financial services to more than 200,000 members. SRP serves the banking needs of individuals, families, and businesses across 10 counties in Georgia and South Carolina. Recognized for its commitment to member service and community impact, SRP was recently named Best-In-State Credit Union in Georgia by Forbes and one of America’s Best Credit Unions in South Carolina by Newsweek. For more information, visit www.srpfcu.org.

 
An SRP ambassador prepares to donate blood inside the Bloodmobile.

Up to 147 Lives Saved Through SRP Community Blood Drive

 

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North Augusta, SC – SRP Federal Credit Union collaborated with Shepeard Community Blood Center to host a blood drive at SRP’s Administrative Campus on Jan. 27, resulting in enough blood donations to save up to 147 lives in the CSRA.


Community members joined dozens of SRP ambassadors to roll up their sleeves and save local lives. In total, 60 donors participated, and Shepeard collected 49 pints of blood for local patients.


Guided by the credit union philosophy of “People Helping People,” SRP Federal Credit Union hosts a quarterly blood drive with Shepeard Community Blood Center. According to Shepeard, every pint donated can save up to 3 lives – a simple way to make a profound impact in the community.


“We had an incredible turnout at our first blood drive of 2026. Our generous SRP ambassadors and members have truly made a difference for patients in our area,” said Josh Rhoden, Marketing and Communications Manager of SRP Federal Credit Union. “We’re proud to support Shepeard Community Blood Center in keeping our communities strong.”

Two red buses in front of a building
Two Shepeard Bloodmobiles saw dozens of visitors during SRP's community blood drive.

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union is headquartered in North Augusta, South Carolina, and provides a full range of financial services to more than 200,000 members. SRP serves the banking needs of individuals, families, and businesses across 10 counties in Georgia and South Carolina. Recognized for its commitment to member service and community impact, SRP was recently named Best-In-State Credit Union in Georgia by Forbes and one of America’s Best Credit Unions in South Carolina by Newsweek. For more information, visit www.srpfcu.org.

 
SRP Federal Credit Union executives and ambassadors present Kaitlynn Dunmire (front row, center) with a ceremonial check for over $3,000 for Blood Cancer United.

SRP Federal Credit Union Ambassadors Raise Over $3,000 for Blood Cancer United

 

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North Augusta, SC – Through a company-wide campaign that encompassed raffle drawings, food truck fundraisers, and CSRA Light the Night participation, SRP Federal Credit Union raised more than $3,000 to support Blood Cancer United, reflecting SRP’s dedication to the credit union philosophy of “People Helping People.”

 

Blood Cancer United, formerly the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, funds blood cancer research, provides patient and family support services, and more. SRP employees donated a total of $3,091.73 to help the organization uplift patients and fight blood cancer.

 

“We are incredibly grateful for this generous support. Donations like this help Blood Cancer United continue to provide critical resources, advocacy, and support for patients and families navigating a blood cancer diagnosis. This gift directly strengthens our ability to meet families where they are and ensure they never face this journey alone,” said Kaitlynn Dunmire, Blood Cancer United campaign development director.

 

SRP’s fundraising campaign, co-chaired by SRP ambassadors Charmaine Finch, Michael Clennett, and La’Kisha Johnson, received support from employees across the credit union’s branches and departments.

 

“Each effort—big or small—helped make a meaningful difference for individuals and families impacted by blood cancer. I’m so proud of the compassion and commitment our ambassadors continue to show in serving our community,” said Finch.

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union, headquartered in North Augusta, SC, provides financial services to over 200,000 members. Recognized for its excellence in business performance and community impact, SRP was recently named Best-In-State Credit Union in Georgia by Forbes. For more information, visit www.srpfcu.org.

 
The green-on-white SRP logo

SRP Distributes Over $4.2 Million in Loyalty Dividends

 

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North Augusta, SC – SRP Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce that its Board of Directors has approved a Loyalty Dividend to be paid across its membership. This additional dividend payout, totaling more than $4.2 million, reflects SRP’s continued financial strength and its commitment to rewarding members for their support.

 

“Serving our members is at the heart of who we are,” said Liz Ponder, CEO of SRP Federal Credit Union. “This Loyalty Dividend is a meaningful way to recognize their trust and the collective success we’ve achieved together.”

 

The Loyalty Dividend highlights SRP’s dedication to the credit union philosophy of “People Helping People.” As a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, SRP exists to serve its members rather than shareholders.

 

SRP Federal Credit Union remains committed to strengthening the financial well-being of its members and the communities it serves across the CSRA.

 

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

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union, headquartered in North Augusta, SC, provides financial services to over 200,000 members. Recognized for its excellence in business performance and community impact, SRP was recently named Best-In-State Credit Union in Georgia by Forbes and honored as the 2024 Large Business of the Year by the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce and the North Augusta Chamber of Commerce. For more information, visit www.srpfcu.org.