VyStar Facts
Stay connected to your credit union anytime — even on the go.
Fall 2026
Featured in this Issue
The Moments That Matter Most
Some of the moments that matter most happen quietly. A relationship specialist who takes a few extra minutes to educate a member on the latest fraud trends, knowledge that helps the moment a scammer comes calling. A conversation at a branch that turns into a fresh start on someone's credit. A Saturday spent volunteering because it's simply who someone is. None of these situations make headlines, but together, they're what VyStar is built on.
This edition of VyStar Facts is full of them. You'll read about team members who looked past the task in front of them and saw the member behind it, helping members navigate their financial journeys while saving them money and protecting them from fraud.
You'll meet Jessica Brant, who built a business from a desk drawer of good intentions into a thriving enterprise on Arlington Road, with our Commercial Banking team alongside her every step. And you'll get to know Tillery Durbin, whose family has been showing up for their community for generations, and who brings that same heart to VyStar every day.
We show up in plenty of quieter ways, too. We're continuing to make banking simpler, whatever way you choose to do it, from upgraded ATMs to easier ways to compare and select credit cards to fit your financial goals to providing more control over your debit card right from your phone. This month, we’re bringing our Good is everywhere initiative back for its fifth year, with more than 40+ free experiences across Florida and Georgia that showcase the power of community and our commitment to giving back.
None of this happens by accident. It's what happens when Do Good and Bank Better aren't just words on a page, but something our employees choose to live out every day. Thank you for letting us be part of your financial journey, and for trusting us to show up for you and the communities we call home.
Brian E. Wolfburg
President/CEO
VyStar Credit Union
More Locations, Same Personalized Service
VyStar continues to grow and bring personalized service to more communities. This fall, members can visit our new branches in Clermont, Florida, as well as Pooler and Kingsland, Georgia. We look forward to welcoming members and neighbors into these new locations and building lasting relationships in the communities we proudly serve.
Earn up to 4.15% APY** on a CD.
Take advantage of limited-time CD rates and watch your savings grow.
Other advantages include:
- Dividends are compounded monthly and paid monthly
- Open with as little as $500 and no maximum
- Withdraw dividends at any time with no penalty, or let them keep earning
Open a new high-yield CD today with as little as $500.
|
Click the button below to open online 
|
|
Or schedule an appointment at a branch.
COMMUNITY SUPPORT
From Family Tradition to Community Impact
Some people discover volunteerism later in life.
For Tillery Durbin, it has always been part of her DNA — a legacy passed down through generations, shaping the way she sees people and the way she shows up for them.
When Tillery joined VyStar in 2024, she brought years of commercial lending experience and a deep, lifelong commitment to service. Today, as our Commercial Loan Processing Manager, she leads with the same heart she brings to every volunteer moment. That heart powered 265.5 volunteer hours in 2026, earning her first runner‑up in the 2026 VyStar Volunteer Awards in the Manager category.
But her story starts long before VyStar.
A Family That Led by Example
Tillery grew up in a home where giving was part of everyday life. Her parents spent years volunteering in Haiti, her father repairing electrical systems in orphanages while her mother cared for patients as a nurse. Her aunt dedicated more than two decades to a Jacksonville nonprofit. And when Tillery was just 12, her entire family received the City of Jacksonville’s Volunteer Family of the Year Award.
“We didn’t have much money,” she said. “So, we gave what we had. Our time and our talents.”
That simple philosophy became her compass.
A Life of Showing Up
By the time she arrived at VyStar, Tillery was already deeply rooted in service. She served on the Salvation Army board in Clay County, leading Christmas kettle counting and the Angel Tree gift distribution, moments filled with gratitude, relief and sometimes tears from parents who couldn’t believe the generosity their children would receive.
She also became a steady presence at her church’s food pantry, especially during the pandemic. She helped streamline the registration and distribution process so families could get what they needed quickly and with dignity.
One guest told her, “You treat us like people, not numbers. You remember our names. You make something hard feel lighter.”
That moment stayed with her.
It reminded her why she keeps showing up.
What Volunteerism Means to Her
“Volunteering isn’t just showing up to do the work,” Tillery said. “It’s giving your time or your talent to something meaningful. When you love the place or the event, it doesn’t feel like work, it feels fun.
And that joy is contagious — why people gravitate toward her. It’s why her impact lingers long after the event ends.
A Recognition That Reflects a Lifetime
When Tillery received VyStar’s 2026 Volunteer of the Year Award, it wasn’t just a celebration of hours logged or tasks completed. It was a recognition of the heart she brings into every space.
“It meant that the company I work for sees the hard work we put in,” she said. “And personally, it meant I’m living the values my parents taught me, giving back and helping others.”
A Story Worth Celebrating
Tillery’s journey is a reminder that volunteerism isn’t defined by grand gestures. It’s defined by presence. By kindness. By the willingness to make someone’s day a little easier.
Her story reflects the best of who we are at VyStar, people who show up, lift others and lead with heart.
And we’re grateful she’s part of our story.
Brick by Brick: How Jessica Brant Built a Financial Legacy
In Arlington, on Jacksonville’s east side, a plaza is taking shape.
The space houses Brant & Associates, a bookkeeping firm founded by Jessica Brant. It’s the result of years of persistence, setbacks and a belief that second chances should lead somewhere worthwhile.
Inside, Jessica envisions a one-stop shop for financial education, collaboration and growth. A place where people can come not just to manage their money but to better understand it.
It’s a vision that started while she sat behind a desk at a Jacksonville bank and hustled to help clients in need. And with the support of VyStar, it’s coming to life more and more each day.
Where the Numbers Started to Matter
In 2017, Jessica reviewed loan applications while finishing her finance degree. Applications crossed her screen daily. Some were approved. Many were not. It was the denials that stayed with her.
“What happens when they leave after they’re not approved?” Jessica remembered wondering. “What do we do then?”
Instead of moving on to the next client, Jessica leaned in. She asked to see budgets. She traced expenses line by line with people who were already discouraged.
“I’d say, ‘Let me see your budget,’” she said. “I have a passion for numbers.”
One day, a client slid a stack of IRS letters across her desk.
“He said, ‘You helped me this far,’” Jessica recalled. Then he told her: “If you fix this, I will follow you.”
Jessica didn’t have all the answers, but she picked up the phone, contacted the IRS and worked through the problem step by step.
“It was trial and error,” Jessica said. “I was honest. I never maliciously made a client think I knew what I was doing.”
That moment stayed with her. It showed her what was possible when someone takes the time to help.
Booking Business
Not long after, Jessica’s life shifted.
Complications during pregnancy forced her onto long-term disability. Her income disappeared overnight. When her daughter was born, she experienced health complications and other personal situations, which caused her to move in with her future mother-in-law.
Through it all, she held onto a small but growing side business, helping clients navigate bookkeeping and tax issues the same way she had at the bank.
To stabilize her financial situation, she took a job as an accountant. But the business kept growing. One client turned into several. Then even more.
“I never had to market for work,” Jessica said.
As her client base expanded, her life at home grew even more demanding. In 2019, she was a mother of three when her daughter underwent surgery and her husband suffered a stroke while recovering from COVID-19.
Between hospital visits and late-night spreadsheets, Jessica made a decision that would change everything. She went all in on her business.
“I never planned to be a full-time entrepreneur,” Jessica recalled.
But it was clear that’s where she was supposed to be.
A Place to Grow
By 2022, Jessica was thinking bigger. She had her eye on a small plaza on Arlington Road, a space where she could grow her business and create something more for others. But past financial setbacks made her hesitant to try again.
“My motto is, ‘Don’t show me something that I can’t have,’” Jessica said.
At her local VyStar branch, Relationship Specialist Jonathan Hibbert saw the opportunity differently. For years, he had encouraged her to take the next step and find a permanent home for her business.
“I would bring it up every year whether it was birthdays or Christmas,” Jonathan said.
This time, she was ready. Jonathan connected her with VyStar’s Commercial Banking team, including Assistant Vice President of Sales Mark Emmel.
“They made sure I understood what was going on,” Jessica said. “They valued me as a person.”
Before moving forward, there was work to do. Jessica focused on strengthening her financial position, paying down debt and preparing for the responsibilities that come with owning commercial property.
“She was willing to do all the work,” Mark said.
Then came another obstacle. Right before closing, Jessica learned that the building was not compliant with the Community Reinvestment Act. The law requires financial institutions to meet the needs of their communities.
During that period, compliance requirements in the area were changing, causing the building to no longer meet code standards.
“This was going to be hard to do,” Mark said.
The issue caused the closing to be delayed for months. Fortunately, Mark was there every step of the way guiding and explaining the process to bring the building into compliance. With guidance from the VyStar team, Jessica navigated the process, renegotiated the terms with the seller and secured an agreement that included $75,000 in escrow, giving her added equity in the project.
“I do everything with VyStar now,” Jessica said, laughing.
Booking the future
Today, the space on Arlington Road is coming to life.
Walls are coming down. Beams are exposed. Possibilities stretch across the open floor.
Jessica plans to include co-working space for businesses and accounting firms, along with an event space designed for education and connection.
“I’m trying to keep it a one-stop shop,” Jessica said.
Through the challenges she faced while building her business, she hopes to create a legacy and a prosperous future for her family.
“It feels good to have my daughter as my heir,” Jessica said. “My kids will never have to work for anyone in their lives.”
With support from VyStar and a determination forged through years of perseverance, Jessica’s vision is no longer theoretical. It is taking shape into a legacy meant to last for generations.
Interested in a business loan?
Fill out the business loan inquiry form to request a call back.
For immediate assistance with applying for a business loan, call 904-474-6542 or toll free at 888-453-3167.
Show Your School Spirit While Supporting Your School Every Time You Swipe
Heading back to school is the perfect time to show your school pride. With a VyStar High School Debit Card, students can carry their school spirit wherever they go while learning smart money management habits. Every time a co-branded debit card is used, VyStar donates 5 cents to the participating school, up to $10,000 per school each year.* It's an easy way for students, parents, faculty, alumni and supportive community members to support their school while making everyday purchases. Whether you're grabbing school supplies, paying for lunch or shopping for game-day gear, your card can make a difference.
Help Your Teen Start the School Year Financially Strong
A new school year brings fresh opportunities, including the chance to build healthy financial habits. A VyStar Youth Checking Account gives teens the tools they need to learn money management with features like Online & Mobile banking, a debit card and account alerts. Whether they're managing spending for school activities, saving for future goals or learning to budget, a Youth Checking Account can help them gain confidence and independence with money. Start the school year by giving your teen a valuable financial lesson that can last a lifetime.
Good is everywhere is back
Our favorite time of year is here and in 2026, Good is everywhere is bigger, bolder and more impactful than ever. From September 9–26, we are celebrating our fifth year of coming together to uplift the communities we proudly serve.
We are welcoming members to enjoy 40+ free experiences across Florida and Georgia, including the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens to Monster Jam, Orlando Science Center and UF/FSU football.
Learn more about Good is everywhere.
See What's Coming Up
Every Saturday
Jacksonville, FL
VyStar Free Saturdays at MOCA
2nd Sunday of Each Month
Orlando, FL
Mennello Museum Free Family Funday
Free admission with special arts and crafts projects
Presented by VyStar
September 1 - April 30, 2027
Atlanta, GA
Austell Reads (Cobb Collaborative)
VyStar is sponsoring this event to promote early literacy and expand access to learning opportunities for Cobb County residents
September 9 & 22
Jacksonville, FL
Film at WJCT Studios - WJCT Public Media
VyStar sponsors this event, bringing compelling films and community storytelling to Jacksonville
October 9-11
Palm Coast, FL
Constellation FURYK & FRIENDS
VyStar proudly sponsors Constellation FURYK & FRIENDS, bringing world-class golf to Jacksonville while supporting Northeast Florida charities
Ongoing
McDonough, GA
Heritage Park Museum
Free Admission
VyStar is a Sponsor
Explore VyStar Perks
Did you know your membership gives you discounts and special access to many of our favorite destinations? Whether you enjoy visiting museums and zoos, supporting local athletics or checking out other attractions, VyStar Perks is like having an all-access pass to adventure.
.png?width=300&name=MMAA-Logo%20(1).png){kind=small}
*OFFICIAL RULES: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. Entrants may enter to win one (1) $500 Visa® e gift card by completing the “Back-to-School” entry form anytime from September 18, 2026 – November 30, 2026 at 11:59 pm.
How to Enter: The Sweepstakes may be entered by completing the “Back-to-School” entry form on the https://vystarfacts.vystarcu.org page or by mail at:
VyStar Facts Newsletter Poll
Marketing Department
76 South Laura Street
Jacksonville, Florida 32202
Online entries must be received no later than November 30, 2026 at 11:59 pm to be eligible for the drawing. The entry must fulfill all Sweepstakes requirements, as specified, to be eligible to win a prize. Incomplete entries or entries that do not adhere to the rules may be disqualified at the sole discretion of VyStar Credit Union (“Sponsor”).
Limit one (1) entry per person during the contest period. Use of multiple email addresses, identities, or devices to circumvent this limit may result in disqualification
Eligibility: The Sweepstakes is open to legal residents of Florida and Georgia who are 18 years of age or older at the time of entry. VyStar Credit Union membership is not required to enter or win. Employees of VyStar Credit Union and their immediate family members are not eligible to enter. The Sweepstakes is void where prohibited by law.
Drawing & Winner: Conducted under the supervision of the Sponsor on or about December 3, 2026 at 9:00 am EDT. The odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries received.
Winner Notification: The selected winner will be notified via the email address provided at the time of entry within five (5) calendar days following the drawing. If the selected winner does not respond within forty eight (48) hours of notification, the winner may be disqualified and an alternate winner may be selected.
Prize: One (1) $500 Visa® e gift card will be awarded. Winners are responsible for all applicable federal, state, and local taxes associated with prize acceptance and use.
Communications and Marketing Consent: By entering the Sweepstakes, entrants agree to receive communications necessary for the administration of the Sweepstakes, including winner notification and related follow up. Additionally, by participating in this drawing, you give VyStar Credit Union permission to contact you by email at the address you provide to promote its products and services. You may opt out of these email contacts by following the unsubscribe instructions in the email promotion. Opting out of marketing communications will not affect eligibility for, or participation in, the Sweepstakes.
Rights Granted by You: By entering this Sweepstakes, entrants grant VyStar Credit Union and its designees the right, where permitted by law, to use the entrant’s name, likeness, and submission for promotional, advertising, and publicity purposes without additional compensation, notice, or consent.
Privacy: Information collected from entrants is subject to VyStar Credit Union’s Privacy Policy, available at: https://vystarcu.org/privacy-statement. By entering, entrants acknowledge and agree to the collection and use of their information in accordance with this policy.
Liability Release: By participating in the Sweepstakes, entrants agree to release and hold harmless the Sponsor and its affiliates, officers, directors, employees, and agents from any claims, damages, or liability arising from participation in the Sweepstakes or acceptance or use of the prize.
Modification or Cancellation: The Sponsor reserves the right to cancel, modify, or suspend the Sweepstakes if fraud, technical failures, or other factors impair the integrity of the Sweepstakes, as determined in the Sponsor’s sole discretion.
Governing Law: This Sweepstakes is governed by the laws of the State of Florida. Any disputes will be resolved individually in the appropriate court located in Duval County, Florida.
Social Media Disclaimer: This promotion is not sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Snapchat, or Google.
Inquiries: Questions regarding the Sweepstakes may be directed to:
VyStar Marketing Department
76 South Laura Street
Jacksonville, FL 32202
Email: marketing@vystarcu.org
Phone: (904) 777 6000
Winners List: To request the winner’s name, send a stamped, self addressed envelope to the address above. Requests must be received by February 28, 2027.
Additional Terms: Gift card usage is subject to the issuer’s terms and conditions: https://www.giftcardgranny.com/cardholder-agreement. Federally Insured by the NCUA
**Annual Percentage Yield. Rates are accurate as of June 22, 2026. $500 minimum deposit required to earn 3.90% for 15-month CD. All new accounts are subject to approval. Product offers, terms and other information provided herein are subject to change without notice. A penalty may be imposed for early withdrawal from a CD.
Federally Insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Opportunity.
All accounts and loans are subject to approval. Credit union programs, rates, services, terms and conditions are subject to change at any time without notice. Certain restrictions and limitations apply. ©2026 VyStar Credit Union.