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Essential

Money Smarts: Building Financial Skills for Life

Avatar: Community Member Community Member
Do you have specific Neighborhood(s) in mind?
Fordham Heights, Bedford Park, Fordham, Tremont
Which group(s) does your idea focus on? Select as many as apply.
Youth
Public Housing Residents
People with Disabilities
Limited English Speakers
Immigrants/ Migrants
Low Income People
Black, Indigenous and/or People of Color
Describe the challenge you want to address:
The lack of financial literacy education for our youth poses significant challenges for youth as they transition into adulthood. Without formal instruction on managing money, many students graduate without understanding essential financial concepts, such as budgeting, saving, investing, credit, and debt management. This gap leaves them ill-equipped to navigate critical decisions, such as financing education, managing credit cards, or planning for long-term goals like home ownership or retirement. Additionally, the absence of financial literacy exacerbates socioeconomic inequalities. Students from low-income families often lack access to financial guidance at home, making schools an essential place to level the playing field. Without these skills, young people are more vulnerable to predatory financial practices, high-interest debt, and financial insecurity
What is the solution to the challenge?
A Financial Literacy for Youth in public schools after school programs would focus on equipping students with essential money management skills and fostering a solid foundation for financial independence. This program would integrate age-appropriate lessons that will serve our youth population ages 10 to 16 Core Topics will include: Budgeting: Teaching students how to create and manage a budget for personal expenses. Saving and Investing: Exploring the importance of saving money and introducing concepts like compound interest and stock market basics. Credit and Loans: Understanding credit scores, responsible borrowing, and avoiding debt traps. Taxes and Income: Explaining how taxes work and how to read a paycheck. Consumer Awareness: Educating on identifying scams, reading contracts, and making informed financial decisions. Hands-On Activities: Budget simulations and role-playing scenarios. Annual savings challenge(how much they can save in one year). Guest lectures from financial professionals and local entrepreneurs. Technology Integration: Use of apps and tools for budgeting, expense tracking, and understanding investments. Implementing such a program would empower a generation of young people to achieve financial independence, reduce economic disparities, and create a more financially stable society.
Please provide your Zip Code
10475

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