SYLVESTER — South Georgia Banking Company opened its new banking center in Sylvester, located at 603 N. Main Street, on Aug. 19, and will hold a week-long celebration, Aug. 26-30.

Free family friendly events are planned for each day of this week that highlight the bank’s core values and the diverse range of offerings available to their clients, according to a press release from SGBC. The official ribbon cutting with the Sylvester-Worth County Chamber of Commerce is set for 3 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 29.

Each day of the week-long celebration will feature a unique theme, ranging from flashback, agriculture, professionals, family, and forward focus, the bank’s press release said. Each of these unique themes reflect different aspects of the bank and its deep connection to the community. There will also be prize drawings, giveaways, charitable donations, and activities for the whole family to enjoy.

Some key features of the new location include a custom-designed 5,126 square foot full-service banking center conveniently located in the heart of Sylvester as well as an ATM that allows customers to withdraw funds and make both cash and check deposits.

“We are really excited to have everyone come out and see our brand-new location,” said Kevin Kicklighter, Sylvester city president. “This banking center is the culmination of a lot of hard work and dedication to bring something great to Worth County residents.”

SGBC has a long history in Worth County, going back to when the late Pait Willis, one of the bank’s founders and former CEO and chairman, would attend family reunions in Worth County with his Sumner cousins. In fact, Willis contributed to the updates on the original 1932 Sumner genealogy book by William S. Sumner, a gift for future generations.

In 2019, SGBC established a loan production office in Sylvester and almost a year later, in February of 2020, a full-service banking center was established at a temporary location. Last summer, the company officially broke ground on the new location, which opened on Aug. 19.

“With my family’s history in Worth County and the growth of our company, we knew we wanted to invest in Sylvester,” said Glenn P. Willis, son of the late Pait Willis. “We have continued to grow and expand in the five years there, thanks in part to the great leadership and outstanding customer service of our local team, and we are excited about this new chapter for both Worth County and South Georgia Banking Company.”

For details about the grand opening week festivities, go to the South Georgia Banking Company Facebook page or learn more at SGBConline.com.