April 7, 2014, Florence, S.C.  –  In celebration of its 15^th Anniversary First Reliance Bank is planning many events and promotions throughout the year to thank its customers  for doing business with them.  One of the first promotions launched is a personal finance program.
The program, called DIG OUT NOW!,  is a personal Finance program which consists of four FREE 15 – 20 minute videos created in partnership with Joseph Sangl, founder of an Anderson South Carolina organization, called I Was Broke Now I’m Not.
 DIG OUT NOW! is easy to view online and  share with family members, church, or work groups.  The videos are located on the bank’s website, www.firstreliance.com   The bank encourages everyone to take time to view these life changing personal finance videos and use the tools that are offered – all FREE.
Most banks don’t offer online personal financial video lessons.  First Reliance Bank is different. Its purpose is to do everything it can to provide information and tools that will help people get out of unnecessary debt, save money, and live a better life.
Research indicate nearly half of Americans surveyed reported that they “probably” would be unable to come up with $2,000 for emergency funds within 30 days, and one-quarter of the total were “certain” they couldn’t. Those in the “probably” group would seek to raise funds by doing such things as tapping family and friends, increasing their work hours, or selling their possessions.

That research is eye opening in that we need to do a better job of helping people with their finances. The 2008 credit crisis brought to light how many people had taken on more debt than they could ever repay. 
“There are many significant advantages to doing business with a community bank,” said Rick Saunders, CEO.    “Free programs such as this are just one of the many ways First Reliance Bank  provides value to the community and its customers.  Many of the bank’s business customers have asked us for this type of program over the years and we’re happy to be able to offer it now.  We truly want to help our customers achieve their financial goals and help our communities to grow," said Saunders.