In a bid to foster financial literacy among the younger generation, two prominent banking institutions, Regions Bank and OneUnited Bank, have unveiled innovative programs aimed at enhancing economic awareness. Through community engagement and educational initiatives, these organizations are setting the stage for a financially empowered future.

Achieve Financial Mastery Through Community Action

Regions Bank has recently introduced its 15th Share the Good ® initiative, expanding its volunteer efforts across the Southeast, Midwest, and Texas. This year’s focus, titled Help Learners Build Financial Confidence, aligns with the bank's Financial Literacy Month activities in April. Employees will collaborate with local schools and youth programs to deliver comprehensive financial education workshops, promoting long-term financial health.The program exemplifies Regions Bank's dedication to fostering positive money habits from an early age. By integrating financial education into community outreach, the bank aims to prepare young individuals for a lifetime of fiscal responsibility. In 2023 alone, associates contributed over 104,000 hours of service, underscoring their commitment to nurturing communities through active participation.Financial wellness is a cornerstone of Regions Bank’s mission to improve lives. Gina Sian, director of the Regions Making Life Better Institute ® system, highlights the importance of empowering students with the tools to navigate their financial futures confidently. The organization believes that instilling foundational knowledge in middle and high school students can significantly impact their long-term success.

Advancing Economic Knowledge Through Hands-On Learning

As part of the Share the Good initiative, Regions Bank associates will engage directly with local organizations to provide tailored financial education. Workshops will cover essential topics such as budgeting, saving, and investing, equipping participants with practical skills they can apply immediately. These interactive sessions emphasize real-world applications, ensuring that learners grasp the significance of their financial decisions.Moreover, the bank’s Next Step® program offers a holistic approach to financial wellbeing, addressing both individual and community needs. Through partnerships with schools and nonprofit organizations, Regions Bank ensures that its resources reach those who need them most. This collaborative effort strengthens the foundation of financial literacy within each community it serves.

Promoting Financial Growth Through Competitive Engagement

OneUnited Bank, a trailblazer in Black-owned financial institutions, continues to champion financial education through its annual “I Got Bank” contest. Celebrating its 14th year, this initiative invites children aged 8 to 12 to showcase their understanding of financial principles through creative submissions. Participants may choose to write a 250-word essay, create an art project, or submit a book illustrating how financial knowledge influences daily life.This competition not only rewards winners with a $1,000 savings account but also provides free access to the “I Got Bank” E-Guide, an invaluable resource for young learners. Teri Williams, President of OneUnited Bank and author of “What My Granddad Taught Me About Money,” underscores the critical role of financial literacy in overcoming economic challenges like inflation. By integrating financial education into K-12 curricula, the bank seeks to empower the next generation with the skills necessary for wealth building and long-term prosperity.

Forging a Path Toward Sustainable Wealth

Last year’s contest highlighted the creativity and insight of young financial enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds. Submissions ranged from essays exploring saving strategies to artistic representations of investment growth. Each entry demonstrated a profound understanding of financial concepts, proving that even at a young age, individuals can make informed decisions about their finances.OneUnited Bank remains committed to providing accessible resources for families and educators. Their website, oneunited.com/book, serves as a hub for contest details and educational materials, encouraging widespread participation. By fostering a culture of financial awareness, the bank hopes to inspire a legacy of wisdom and economic resilience.Through these initiatives, Regions Bank and OneUnited Bank are paving the way for a brighter financial future. By combining community involvement with targeted educational programs, they ensure that today’s youth are equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive in an increasingly complex economic landscape.