In 1964, eight employees of the Great Southern Paper Company chipped in $5 apiece and started Cedar Springs Federal Credit Union out of a broom closet. Cedar Springs Federal Credit Union eventually expanded in southwest Georgia and southeast Alabama and changed its name to Five Star Credit Union in 1991. Five Star has not forgotten its roots in Early County, GA. In the first quarter of 2019, a Five Star branch will open in Blakely bringing the total number of branches in Early County to two.
“We have a strong membership base in the Blakely and Cedar Springs communities,” said Robert A. Steensma, president/CEO, Five Star Credit Union. “Our members have been wanting an option in Blakely and we have listened to them. The new branch will be in the perfect location to help our members get in and out quickly. Plus, the branch will be equipped with the newest technology to give them a smooth experience.”
The new Blakely branch will be one of the most technologically advanced branches Five Star operates. It will be equipped with interactive teller machines (ITMs) in both the lobby and in the drive-up lanes. The ITMs will give Five Star members the ability to withdraw cash, make deposits with cash and checks, research Five Star account balances, and make Five Star loan payments. The ITMs will also offer on-demand live remote video assistance during business hours.
“This will add a level of convenience for members so they can transact their financial business on their schedule. It’s just another way we make it easy for them.” said Steensma.
The new Blakely branch will be in the former Mike’s Pharmacy location – 11189 Columbia Street, Blakely, GA 39823. As part of the building remodel, Five Star donated all of the inside materials to the Dothan Rotary “Outlaw Club.” They harvested 2,000 square feet of ceiling tiles, 2,000 square feet of fiberglass insulation, 30 lighting fixtures, and 10 doors from the building. All of these materials were donated to the Habitat for Humanity Restore in Dothan.
