LANCASTER, S.C. — Founders Federal Credit Union is getting students at Brooklyn Springs Elementary School to think "savings" with its new branch.

The unique branch, run by instructors at the school, will teach students the value of money and the importance of saving in the future. The branch will open each Friday during the school year so students can make deposits to their accounts. "When Brooklyn Springs Elementary approached us about helping them teach students about saving, we thought this would be a unique way for students to learn the value of saving money," said Bruce Brumfield, president and CEO of Founders FCU. "This is a great way for us to get involved in our community and strengthen our relationship with the school system." To make the concept of saving money more appealing, students who join the credit union will receive a free gift with their initial deposit. In addition, when a student deposits $25 they are enrolled in the Daniel the Spaniel Kids Savings Club and receive a free customized t-shirt. When their deposits reach $50, they receive another free gift. As the ultimate reward, at the end of the year, the class with the most money saved receives a free ice cream party.