Summerville, SC — Self-Help Federal Credit Union is proud to join the Summerville Chamber of Commerce for the official grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating its Summerville branch, located at 741 North Main Street on February 24, 2026, from 4 – 6 pm. The event will bring together local partners, faith leaders, community organizations, and residents for an event centered on service, creativity, and community impact.
Self-Help will also celebrate its partnership with Jean’s Angels, a registered 501(c)(3) organization providing critical support to community members facing severe hardship. Since 2015, Jean’s Angels has served individuals experiencing homelessness, families in crisis, survivors of domestic or gun violence, children with terminal illnesses, and people navigating traumatic life events. Their work centers dignity, hope, and stability—values deeply aligned with Self-Help’s mission.
Opening Remarks Presented by the Summerville Chamber of Commerce
Guest Remarks
The program will feature remarks from two Self-Help leaders:
- Kerri Smith, Regional Vice President
- Randy Chambers, President
Recognition & Community Awards
A key highlight of the event will be a ceremony honoring exceptional organizations and leaders whose work strengthens the Lowcountry. Awardees include:
- Habitat for Humanity of Berkeley County
- Dr. Shann Laribo, Senior Pastor, The Net International Church, Inc.
- Gerald Footman, Senior Pastor, Trinity Church, Moncks Corner
- Brady Quirk-Garvan, Natural Investments
- Grace Reformed Episcopal Church
These honorees were selected for their longstanding commitments to housing access, community uplift, faith‑based service, responsible investment, and neighborhood support—values deeply aligned with Self-Help’s mission of expanding economic opportunity.
A special highlight will be the unveiling of a special art exhibit by acclaimed Lowcountry artist Christine D. Johnson. Johnson, originally from Jamaica and now based in the Charleston area, is widely celebrated for her vibrant visual storytelling and her commitment to community-centered art. Her work will be on display at the branch through the end of March in recognition of both Black History Month and Women’s History Month
Visitors attending the ribbon cutting will have the opportunity to meet Johnson in person and view a video recently filmed onsite that showcases her artistic process and creative inspiration. Her full biography is available on her website, ChristineDJohnson.com.
Event Program
4:00 PM – Welcome & Opening Remarks Presented by the Summerville Chamber of Commerce
Guest Remarks:
- Kerri Smith, Self-Help Regional Vice President
- Randy Chambers, Self-Help President
Recognition & Community Awards Honoring:
- Habitat for Humanity of Berkeley County
- Dr. Shann Laribo, Senior Pastor, The Net International Church, Inc.
- Gerald Footman, Senior Pastor, Trinity Church, Moncks Corner
- Brady Quirk-Garvan, Natural Investments
- Grace Reformed Episcopal Church
5:00 PM – Official Ribbon Cutting
5:00–6:00 PM – Networking & Mingling
About Self-Help Federal Credit Union
Self-Help Federal Credit Union works to create and protect economic opportunities for underserved communities through responsible lending, financial inclusion, and partnerships with mission-driven organizations. Through initiatives such as its collaboration with Jean’s Angels and recognition of local leaders, Self-Help continues to invest deeply in the people and institutions shaping a more equitable Lowcountry. Learn more at www.self-help.org.
About the Art Exhibit
Artist Christine D. Johnson will attend the ribbon cutting to introduce her featured works. Guests will also be able to view a newly filmed onsite video showcasing her artistic process and community‑centered storytelling. Her full biography is available at ChristineDJohnson.com