Members of the SRP Community Impact Team

SRP Federal Credit Union’s Community Investments Surpass $500,000

posted on

September 11, 2026

North Augusta, SC – Committed to uplifting communities across the 10 counties it serves, SRP Federal Credit Union has donated more than $500,000 to organizations and community programs benefiting the CSRA since the beginning of 2026.

SRP’s community investments reached $551,561 as of Sept. 10, supporting a variety of causes, including education, local events, hunger relief, medical care and more.

In addition to SRP’s community investments, the credit union recently made an impactful donation of $207,500 to 83 local elementary schools with a surprise investment in education. SRP also supported local United Way chapters with funding and volunteer efforts.

SRP has recently engaged in community service as well. SRP employees, known internally as ambassadors, have contributed nearly 3,800 volunteer hours averaging eight volunteer hours per ambassador.

SRP ambassadors have organized more than 120 seminars and financial education events across SRP’s 204,000-member field of membership. The events have reached more than 2,770 participants, covering topics such as budgeting, credit, retirement, and estate planning.

“At SRP Federal Credit Union, community impact is at the heart of everything we do,” said Lonzo Smith, SRP Community Impact Manager. “We are proud of the meaningful difference our ambassadors have made across our 10 counties throughout 2026. The positive impact we have achieved so far this year is a testament to what can be accomplished when people come together with a shared purpose.”

SRP has served 178 organizations through volunteerism, sponsorships, financial education, and community investment initiatives in 2026, reflecting SRP’s unwavering dedication to the credit union philosophy of People Helping People.

“Through volunteerism, strategic giving, and community engagement, SRP continues to strengthen our communities through service, generosity, and leadership,” said Smith. “We believe investing in people creates lasting change, and we remain committed to creating opportunities that strengthen individuals, families, and the communities we serve. These results demonstrate what is possible when an organization is dedicated to putting people first, and we are excited to continue building brighter futures together, the best is yet to come.”

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.

Representatives of schools and school districts across the CSRA join SRP Federal Credit Union leaders in a check presentation for local elementary schools.

SRP Federal Credit Union Donates $207,500 to Elementary Schools in the CSRA

posted on

September 4, 2026

North Augusta, SC – Educators and school district officials across 10 counties in Georgia and South Carolina gathered at SRP Park on Tuesday, September 1 for a surprise announcement: SRP Federal Credit Union has donated $2,500 to 83 elementary schools located in its field of membership.

Designed to provide direct support where it is needed most, the donation gives each school the flexibility to use the funds however it chooses. From classroom resources and student programs to technology, supplies and other school-specific needs, each school can determine how the $2,500 will make the greatest impact for its students, educators and school community.

The donation is the result of SRP Federal Credit Union’s Investing in Education initiative. Rooted in the credit union philosophy of “People Helping People,” the initiative celebrates the possibilities created when schools and communities come together in support of students.

Supporting schools across Aiken, Allendale, Barnwell, Burke, Columbia, Edgefield, Jefferson, Lincoln, McDuffie, and Richmond counties, the Investing in Education initiative reflects SRP’s longtime commitment to uplifting education in the communities it serves. SRP recently celebrated a $3 million donation milestone in its Affinity Debit Card Program, which benefits more than 40 local high schools and Augusta Technical College.

“SRP is proud to give back to our community,” said Liz Ponder, Chief Executive Officer of SRP Federal Credit Union. “With today’s investment, we wanted to be able to pour into the minds of our youth. Financial education is the foundation of what we do, and this is an expansion on that foundation.”

Dr. Charlene Heard, Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Schools for the Aiken County Public School District, said the donations will help support a variety of school needs.

"We are incredibly grateful to SRP Federal Credit Union for its generous investment in our elementary schools and its unwavering commitment to the students we serve,” said Heard. “This investment empowers our principals to respond directly to the unique needs of their schools and create meaningful opportunities through instructional resources, hands-on learning, and enrichment experiences. More than a financial contribution, this is an investment in our students, our educators, and our shared belief in the power of education to transform lives and strengthen our communities."

Representatives of schools and school districts across the CSRA join SRP Federal Credit Union leaders in a check presentation for local elementary schools.

About SRP

Crayons, notebooks, backpacks, and other school supplies fill a conference room at SRP Federal Credit Union. SRP employees donated the supplies for the United Way Stuff the Bus campaign.

SRP Ambassadors Support Local K-12 Students in United Way’s Stuff the Bus Drive

posted on

July 23, 2026

Augusta, GA – Through donated school supplies and volunteer efforts, SRP Federal Credit Union employees, known internally as ambassadors, made a meaningful impact during United Way of the CSRA's 2026 Stuff the Bus school supply drive. United Way's annual Stuff the Bus campaign collects school supplies to help local K–12 students begin the school year with the tools they need to succeed.

Backpacks, notebooks, art supplies, writing utensils, calculators, and more filled donation bins at SRP's branches and administrative campus throughout the July drive. The company-wide initiative concluded with a volunteer day at the Salvation Army Kroc Center, where SRP ambassadors sorted, labeled, and packed school supplies for distribution to local K–12 students.

“We are incredibly grateful to SRP Federal Credit Union for showing what true community partnership looks like,” said Brittany Burnett, President and CEO of United Way of the CSRA. “Their team didn’t just give—they showed up, volunteered, and helped make Stuff the Bus a success for so many of our local students. Because of SRP, children across our community will start the school year with the tools they need to learn, grow, and succeed. We are so grateful for SRP for investing in their future.”

SRP CEO Liz Ponder sorts school supplies. — SRP CEO Liz Ponder works alongside fellow SRP executives to pack boxes full of school supply donations. SRP ambassadors donated a variety of school supplies for all K-12 grade levels.

SRP Community Impact Manager Lonzo Smith, whose team organized SRP’s efforts, said every donation helps relieve some of the financial pressure families experience during the back-to-school season.

“For SRP, Stuff the Bus is about making sure local students start the school year feeling prepared, confident, and ready to learn,” said Smith. “As a community-focused credit union, we understand that something as simple as a backpack, notebook, or pack of pencils can make a big difference for a family. This campaign gives us an opportunity to come together as employees, ambassadors, members, and neighbors to invest in the future of our community's children.”

Guided by the credit union philosophy of People Helping People, SRP Federal Credit Union is committed to uplifting education across the 10 counties it serves. Smith said the Stuff the Bus campaign demonstrated a strong spirit of generosity among SRP ambassadors.

“When hundreds of people come together for a common cause, the impact ripples throughout the community,” said Smith. “Students benefit, families benefit, teachers benefit, and ultimately, our entire community is stronger because we're helping create opportunities for young people to thrive.”

SRP Human Resources Manager Jennifer Turman helps pack school supply donations for delivery to the Salvation Army Kroc Center Augusta, where United Way sorted donations for distribution.

About SRP

SRP representatives join the Edgefield County Board of Education and Strom Thurmond High School principal in a check presentation ceremony.

Strom Thurmond High School receives over $39,000 from SRP Affinity Debit Card Program

posted on

June 11, 2026

Johnston, SC – SRP Federal Credit Union leaders presented the Edgefield County Board of Education with a ceremonial check for nearly $40,000 at the board meeting on Tuesday, June 9, reflecting a year of support for Strom Thurmond High School in the SRP Affinity Debit Card Program.

Totaling $39,403.80, the donation represents the program’s 2025 proceeds for STHS—bringing the school’s lifetime proceeds to nearly $200,000.

SRP Federal Credit Union launched the SRP Affinity Debit Card Program in 2018 to help support local high schools with funding. The program has expanded since its inception to include 45 high schools, as well as Augusta Technical College, across the CSRA.

Every time an SRP member uses an SRP Affinity Debit Card, the credit union donates funds to the school designated on the card. Schools have full discretion over the funds, allowing them to address a variety of needs. Past donations have supported technology upgrades, team uniforms, school equipment, teacher certifications, and more.

Kristin Risher, principal of STHS, said receiving funding support through the SRP Affinity Debit Card Program gives the school the flexibility to innovate and support crucial programs and resources.

"These funds directly impact our daily culture by powering our R.E.B.S. Rewards student incentive program, supporting staff development and recognition to ensure high-quality instruction daily, providing critical resources for families in poverty, and helping to continue the forward movement of our unique career academy model to provide career-related experiences that reach beyond classroom walls,” said Risher. “The SRP Affinity Debit Card Program isn't just funding our school; it is actively investing in our future!"

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union Awarded Large Business of the Year by Greater Augusta Black Chamber of Commerce

posted on

June 9, 2026

Augusta, GA – The Greater Augusta Black Chamber of Commerce (GABCC) honored SRP Federal Credit Union with the 2026 Large Business of the Year Award, a testament to the credit union’s commitment to uplifting communities in the CSRA.

The Chamber announced the prestigious award at its 9^th Anniversary Gala. Themed “The Time is Now,” the gala connected organizations across the Greater Augusta area for an evening of celebration. SRP executives and leaders represented the credit union and expressed gratitude at the event.

“SRP Federal Credit Union is proud to be a valued member of the Greater Augusta Black Chamber of Commerce and to support its mission of strengthening and empowering the business community,” said Lonzo Smith, Community Impact Manager of SRP Federal Credit Union. “This meaningful partnership aligns with the credit union philosophy of ‘People Helping People,’ and we were honored to celebrate alongside fellow leaders at the annual gala and to be recognized during such a memorable and impactful evening.”

Established in 1960, SRP Federal Credit Union serves over 200,000 members and gives back to local communities through donations, volunteering, and educational initiatives. GABCC President and Co-Founder Ronic West said the award reflects the credit union’s dedication to both the chamber’s mission and the communities it serves.

"It is our distinct honor to recognize SRP Federal Credit Union as the Greater Augusta Black Chamber of Commerce's 2026 Large Business of the Year,” said Ronic West, GABCC President and Co-Founder. “SRP is not just a partner of GABCC, they are invested in our mission. Their commitment to the CSRA is evident with $1,174,511 in community giving, 4,649 employee service hours, and a landmark $3 million donated to local high schools and Augusta Technical College through the SRP Affinity Debit Card Program since its inception. We are proud to stand alongside SRP Federal Credit Union as a true cornerstone of the CSRA community."

About SRP

SRP leaders join Aiken County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Corey Murphy for an SRP Affinity check presentation at the Aiken County Board of Education.

Aiken County Public Schools Receive Over $300,000 from SRP Affinity Debit Card Program

posted on

May 28, 2026

Aiken, SC – SRP Federal Credit Union representatives presented the Aiken County Board of Education with funds exceeding $300,000 from the SRP Affinity Debit Card Program’s 2025 proceeds, reflecting a year of dedicated support from SRP members.

At $321,880.30, the total funds represent participation among nine high schools in Aiken County: the Aiken County Career Technology Center, Aiken High School, Aiken Scholars Academy, Midland Valley High School, North Augusta High School, Ridge Spring-Monetta High School, Silver Bluff High School, South Aiken High School, and Wagener-Salley High School.

“We thank SRP and every student and family who uses their Affinity Debit Card. The program has allowed our high schools financial flexibility to further encourage student success,” said Dr. Corey Murphy, Superintendent of Aiken County Public Schools.

The SRP Affinity Debit Card Program, established in 2018, helps provide funding to schools throughout the credit union’s field of membership in the CSRA. Every time an SRP member uses an Affinity Debit Card for a purchase, SRP donates to the school designated on the card.

46 schools participate in the Affinity Debit Card Program, including public, private, and charter high schools, as well as Augusta Technical College. SRP Federal Credit Union has donated more than $3 million to schools since the program’s inception – and over $1 million of those funds has supported schools in the Aiken County Public School District.

“Aiken County Public Schools have been with our Affinity Debit Card Program from the beginning. Every year, we are inspired by the unwavering dedication of our SRP members as they help us uplift local schools,” said Lonzo Smith, Community Impact Manager at SRP Federal Credit Union. “We extend heartfelt gratitude to the families, educators, and members who make this program possible.”

About SRP

Shepeard Community Blood Center's mobile

SRP Federal Credit Union’s Community Blood Drive Saves Up to 84 Lives in the CSRA

posted on

May 27, 2026

North Augusta, SC – SRP Federal Credit Union employees and community members alike lined up to support local patients through SRP’s Community Blood Drive on May 5 at the SRP Administrative Campus.

With a total of 28 pints donated by 42 participants, the drive resulted in enough blood to provide lifesaving support for up to 84 patients. Donors could choose to give blood inside Shepeard’s “Bloodmobile” mobile units at SRP, or they could elect to donate in support of SRP’s drive at any of Shepeard’s donor centers.

The Shepeard Community Blood Center and SRP Federal Credit Union collaborate quarterly to host a community blood drive. In 2025, the four blood drives at SRP’s Administrative Campus resulted in enough donations to save up to 267 lives.

A woman donates blood inside a mobile donation unit. — Grace Helms, Director of Consumer Growth at SRP, donates inside one of the Shepeard Bloodmobiles.

Grace Helms, SRP Director of Consumer Growth, was among the 32 SRP employees who participated in the blood drive. She reflected on the impact of her donation and the generosity of her fellow donors.

"At SRP, supporting our community is part of who we are. Participating in our onsite blood drive is a meaningful reminder that even a small act can make a big difference in someone’s life,” said Helms.

A woman donates inside one of Shepeard's Bloodmobiles. — "I donated blood today because my universal blood type gives me the chance to help anyone, anywhere, in their most critical moments. It’s inspiring to know that such a simple act can bring hope and potentially save lives within my community. Being able to give something so vital reminds me how powerful even one person’s contribution can be," said Paeton Harris, SRP Contact Center Agent.

A man donates blood inside a mobile donation unit. — Josh Rhoden, SRP Marketing and Communications Manager, is a regular donor at SRP's quarterly blood drives. "In just 30 minutes, I can help save someone’s life. Why wouldn’t I donate?" he said.

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union Celebrates $3 Million Donated to Local Schools through Affinity Program

posted on

May 26, 2026

North Augusta, SC – Principals, superintendents, school board representatives, and educators from across the CSRA gathered at SRP Federal Credit Union's Administrative Campus on Monday, May 18, to celebrate a significant milestone in the SRP Affinity Debit Card Program: more than $3 million donated to local schools throughout the region.

Established in 2018, the SRP Affinity Debit Card Program gives SRP members an easy and meaningful way to support local education. Members select a school-branded debit card connected to one of 46 participating schools, and every time the card is used for purchases, SRP donates funds directly to that school.

Participating schools include public, charter, and private high schools across the CSRA, as well as Augusta Technical College.

The celebration featured ceremonial checks representing donations made to participating schools and districts, highlighting the impact of SRP members' ongoing commitment to investing in education through the Affinity Program.

"Every swipe is bigger than just a transaction, it's an investment in our students, educators, and the future of our communities." said Liz Ponder, CEO of SRP Federal Credit Union. "This milestone represents the power of people coming together to make a lasting impact in local schools across the CSRA. We are incredibly proud of our members for embracing this program and helping create meaningful opportunities for students."

One of the program's most impactful features is the flexibility of the donations. Funds provided through the Affinity Program are unrestricted, allowing school administrators to direct resources where they are needed most.

Over the years, Affinity Program funds have supported a wide range of educational needs, including classroom technology, furniture, training for teachers, athletic and band uniforms, and student travel to competitions.

SRP Federal Credit Union remains committed to creating opportunities that strengthen local schools and enrich the lives throughout the CSRA.

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union representatives join the Columbia County Board of Education for a check presentation ceremony.

Columbia County Public High Schools Receive Over $62,000 From SRP Federal Credit Union’s Affinity Debit Card Program

posted on

May 19, 2026

Evans, GA – SRP Federal Credit Union representatives joined the Columbia County Board of Education on April 21 to celebrate the district’s 2025 SRP Affinity Debit Card Program proceeds, which will provide support for five participating high schools: Evans High School, Greenbrier High School, Grovetown High School, Harlem High School, and Lakeside High School.

Totaling $62,599.75, the donation reflects a year of participation from families, faculty and staff, and community members who selected a Columbia County school to support with their SRP Affinity Debit Cards.

“We appreciate the continued partnership between SRP Federal Credit Union and our five high schools. Their support aligns with our strategic plan and helps strengthen student achievement through community engagement, while also helping to enhance the high-quality learning taking place across the Columbia County School District. Thank you, SRP Federal Credit Union, for all you do to inspire our students and staff,” said Dr. Steven Flynt, Superintendent of the Columbia County School District.

SRP Federal Credit Union’s Affinity Debit Card Program, launched in 2018, strengthens local schools with funding. 45 high schools and Augusta Technical College participate in the program, offering SRP members the opportunity to support schools across the credit union’s 10-county field of membership. Every time an SRP member makes a purchase using an Affinity Debit Card, SRP donates funds to the school designated on the card.

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

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union representatives join Barnwell County School District board members and Superintendent Dr. Stapleton behind a ceremonial check for $71,095.30.

SRP Donates Over $70,000 to Barnwell County School District High Schools Through Affinity Debit Card Program

posted on

April 24, 2026

Barnwell, SC – Four schools in the Barnwell County School District received a combined total of over $70,000 from SRP Federal Credit Union’s 2025 Affinity Debit Card Program proceeds, reflecting a year of commitment to supporting local schools from families, faculty and staff, and community members.

SRP Federal Credit Union officials joined Barnwell County School District Board of Trustees members and Superintendent Dr. Crissie Stapleton in a check presentation ceremony on March 25. The school district received $71,095.30 in unrestricted funds for participating schools.

“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, we are deeply grateful for SRP’s continued investment in our students and schools,” said Becky Huggins, Board Chair for the Barnwell County School District. “Partnerships like this strengthen not only our classrooms, but our entire community.”

Launched in 2018, the SRP Affinity Debit Card Program strengthens local high schools, as well as Augusta Technical College, with funding. Every time an SRP member makes a purchase using an Affinity Debit Card, SRP Federal Credit Union donates funds to the school designated on the card.

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

“At SRP Federal Credit Union, we believe in strengthening our communities through the power of education,” said Lonzo Smith, SRP Federal Credit Union Community Impact Manager. “What makes the SRP Affinity Debit Card Program special is the way it connects schools, families, and community members toward a common goal: uplifting students in our area. We are proud to support schools across our 10-county service area with Affinity funds.”

In the Barnwell County School District, SRP Federal Credit Union offers Affinity Debit Cards that benefit the Barnwell County Career Center, Barnwell High School, Blackville-Hilda High School, and Williston-Elko High School.

"We are deeply grateful for our continued partnership with SRP Federal Credit Union and the impact of the Affinity Debit Card Program,” said Dr. Stapleton. “This initiative reflects a shared commitment to our students, turning everyday transactions into meaningful investments that support programs, provide resources, and create opportunities across Barnwell County School District. The impact of SRP’s Affinity Debit Card Program not only provides critical support for student programs and resources, but also demonstrates the power of a community coming together to invest in the success of our children."

Tag: community

SRP Federal Credit Union’s Community Investments Surpass $500,000

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union Donates $207,500 to Elementary Schools in the CSRA

About SRP

SRP Ambassadors Support Local K-12 Students in United Way’s Stuff the Bus Drive

About SRP

Strom Thurmond High School receives over $39,000 from SRP Affinity Debit Card Program

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union Awarded Large Business of the Year by Greater Augusta Black Chamber of Commerce

About SRP

Aiken County Public Schools Receive Over $300,000 from SRP Affinity Debit Card Program

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union’s Community Blood Drive Saves Up to 84 Lives in the CSRA

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union Celebrates $3 Million Donated to Local Schools through Affinity Program

About SRP

Columbia County Public High Schools Receive Over $62,000 From SRP Federal Credit Union’s Affinity Debit Card Program

About SRP

SRP Donates Over $70,000 to Barnwell County School District High Schools Through Affinity Debit Card Program

About SRP

803-278-4851

You Are Now Leaving SRP Federal Credit Union’s Website.

SRP Federal Credit Union’s Community Investments Surpass $500,000

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union Donates $207,500 to Elementary Schools in the CSRA

About SRP

SRP Ambassadors Support Local K-12 Students in United Way’s Stuff the Bus Drive

About SRP

Strom Thurmond High School receives over $39,000 from SRP Affinity Debit Card Program

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union Awarded Large Business of the Year by Greater Augusta Black Chamber of Commerce

About SRP

Aiken County Public Schools Receive Over $300,000 from SRP Affinity Debit Card Program

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union’s Community Blood Drive Saves Up to 84 Lives in the CSRA

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union Celebrates $3 Million Donated to Local Schools through Affinity Program

About SRP

Columbia County Public High Schools Receive Over $62,000 From SRP Federal Credit Union’s Affinity Debit Card Program

About SRP

SRP Donates Over $70,000 to Barnwell County School District High Schools Through Affinity Debit Card Program

About SRP

803-278-4851

Looking for something?