An innovative financial literacy program is enhancing soldiers' understanding of economic management and emergency relief options. At Joint Base Lewis-McChord, military personnel from the 6th Military Police Company engaged in interactive activities designed to boost their knowledge of financial strategies and support programs. These activities combined educational content with engaging games that illustrated real-world financial scenarios.

The event featured collaborative efforts between financial advisors and Army Emergency Relief (AER) specialists. Participants divided into teams and participated in various challenges that tested their decision-making skills. Through activities like Jenga and mini-golf, soldiers earned points by demonstrating prudent financial practices. A highlight was the Wheel of Life game, which simulated investment choices and emphasized the importance of long-term savings plans. According to Scott Davis, a financial advisor, such methods effectively convey complex concepts in an accessible manner.

Building on last year's success, this initiative has expanded its reach across multiple units within the base. Mary Cron, the JBLM AER commander, expressed enthusiasm about the growing interest in these events. Commanders like Cpt. Brandon Duran recognize the value of experiential learning over traditional methods, noting that even seasoned veterans gained new insights during the training. Omar Henderson, a recent addition to the AER team, shared his motivation for joining: helping soldiers access crucial resources they may not fully understand. This mission-driven approach ensures that both current and future service members benefit from enhanced financial readiness. By fostering a culture of financial awareness, these programs empower soldiers to secure stable futures for themselves and their families.