March 24, 2006 Florence, SC - Joan Billheimer has joined First Reliance Bank as the Community Development Officer for the Florence market.

Mrs. Billheimer brings a wealth of banking experience to First Reliance Bank. "Joan is one of the most visible community leaders in Florence. Joan will be leading our efforts in fulfilling our commitment to support the community in which we work educationally, culturally, and economically", said Tom Ewart, Senior Vice President and Chief Banking Officer.

As a resident of the Florence community for more than 31 years, Mrs. Billheimer has always remained an active member of the community, currently serving on the following boards: United Way, Florence Darlington Technical College Foundation, Florence Family YMCA, McLeod Medical Center Foundation, SCANA Community Advisory Board, and is also the co-chair for the Mobile Mammography Fundraising organization. Mrs. Billheimer has also served as past chair for the Pee Dee International Festival, Relay for Life, the Heart Ball, and the United Way Campaign.

Throughout her extensive involvement in the community, Mrs. Billheimer has earned many awards. These include: Florence YMCA Outstanding International Leadership Award, Florence World Affairs Council Citizen Diplomat Award, McLeod Foundation Volunteer of the Year Award, Ashpy P. Lowrimore Community Service Award, and Women of Achievement Award.

First Reliance Bank was founded in 1999 and has assets of over $400 million. The bank serves the midlands, low country and Pee Dee regions of South Carolina. The bank has been recognized for its success including being the only bank ever to be named to The Top 25 Fastest Growing Companies™ in South Carolina three times including 2005 (ElliottDavis.) First Reliance Bank operates in five locations with Totally Free Checking, Totally Free Business, free coin machines, National No Fee ATM Network, $500 Service Promises and 8-8 Extended Hours in their Florence location. There's More to Banking Than Money™ and Easy To Do Business With™ standards have earned the young bank a customer satisfaction rating of 94% (Performance Solutions-November 2005-Audited.) First Reliance Bank is traded as FSRL.OB.