AgSouth Farm Credit, as part of the national Farm Credit System, is celebrating 100 years of service to agriculture and rural communities throughout this month.
        Marketing Director Christy Smith said, "We have 246 employees who work in 26 offices in Georgia and South Carolina. They wanted to honor our farmers during our centennial celebration in ways that are personal to them and the communities they serve through our 100 Days of Giving program. Employees in each office have planned something relevant to honor their 100-day personal pledge."
        Many are donating goods and services to those in need. Others are donating time or hosting a series of events spread throughout the course of the year.
        "AgSouth Farm Credit has played a vital role in nurturing farmers who provide our food, clothing, fuel, and shelter, and in helping our rural communities thrive," said CEO William P. Spigener, Jr. "As a system, we have survived numerous wars and economic downturns through the years and have adapted to the changes with a resolve to continue to fulfill our mission."
        AgSouth Farm Credit operates as a cooperative, which means that it is owned and governed by its member-borrowers.
These members vote for and serve on the board of directors, and they share in the profits, which in effect cuts their already competitive interest rates even further.
        Since 1991 the cooperative has returned nearly $433 million to its members from its profits.
        In addition to loans, AgSouth also provides such services as leasing, and crop and life insurance to help protect the dreams and livelihoods of our rural residents.
        Spigener says, "AgSouth is committed and well positioned to serve agriculture and our rural communities for the next 100 years and beyond."