There's no substitute for experience. That's why we recently brought an eager group of teens in our Money Coach program for an immersive afternoon at Educators Credit Union. For some of the two-dozen students, it was the first time they had been inside of a financial institution. For Adrianna and other students, it was a chance to hear more on direct deposit, college debt and keeping "as much of [her] money as possible."
When it comes to money, April has a lot more going on than just taxes. There are many national and statewide moves to ramp up financial literacy awareness.
And don't think it's all lectures. Creative efforts during National Financial Literacy Month include a "video drop" by students we worked with from High School for Recording Arts in tandem with StateFarm and Junior Achievement of the Upper Midwest.
Our volunteers are like Google for teen financial questions
As our programming continues to spread geographically, each new school or site brings refreshing reminders of the importance of financial education. Here's how Nadine Ridley, senior at Sun Prairie H.S., described her recent Money Sense sessions with volunteers Craig Peterman and Chuck Benjamin.
"These are the kind of questions that I was literally asking on Google," Ridley recently told a reporter. Make A Difference - Wisconsin volunteers "came in here and completely answered them."
Volunteer Craig Peterman leads a Money Sense session in Sun Prairie.
Mary Ellen Stanek, Chief Investment Officer at Baird Advisors, on what keeps her coming back to the Investment Conference, our largest annual fundraiser:
"Each year, the conference provides exclusive insight and tips from industry leaders. And the dollars raised go directly toward improving financial literacy in our communities. I wouldn't miss it!"
For speakers, registration and event details, visit here.
