Winter 2025/2026 Youth & Young Adult Challenges

Welcome to the Winter 2025/2026 edition of our Youth & Young Adult Challenge!

Those ages 13-17 and 18-21 are eligible for entry until January 30, 2026.  Read through your educational piece and complete the quiz at the end for your chance to win $100.

AGES 13 – 17 YOUTH BLOG

💰 Smart Money Moves:

5 Things Every Teen Should Know About Money

Money might seem like something only adults worry about—but the truth is, the earlier you learn how to manage it, the better off you’ll be. Here are five simple tips to get your money game started!

• Start Saving Early – Even if it’s just $5 a week from chores or a part-time job, saving adds up! Use a savings account or Sow-n-Grow Certificate to stash your cash & watch it grow with interest.
• Understand Needs vs. Wants – Do you need that new hoodie, or do you want it? Learning the difference helps you spend your money wisely—and avoid buyer’s regret.
• Track Your Spending – Use a notebook, an app, or your notes app to track where your money goes. You’ll be surprised how fast small purchases (like snacks or downloads) can add up.
• Set a Money Goal – Want a new phone? A skateboard? Start saving with a goal in mind. Knowing what you’re working toward makes it easier to say “no” to impulse buys.
• Learn About Credit Early – You may not have a credit card yet, but it’s never too soon to understand how credit works. Paying bills on time and keeping debt low helps build good credit in the future!

AGES 18-21 YOUNG ADULT BLOG

💸 Adulting with Money:

5 Financial Tips Every Young Adult Should Know

Turning 18 comes with more freedom—and more responsibility. Whether you’re heading to college, starting a job, or moving out, now is the perfect time to start building smart financial habits that can last a lifetime.

Here are 5 essential tips to keep your money game strong:

• Build a Budget (and Actually Use It!) – A budget doesn’t have to be complicated. List your income, subtract your expenses, and decide how much to save. Our Mobile Banking App can help keep things simple and organized with Alerts and Goals.
• Start Your Emergency Fund – Life happens. A flat tire, surprise medical bill, or lost job can throw you off track if you’re not prepared. Try to save at least $500–$1,000 to start—this fund is for needs, not wants.
• Use Credit Wisely – Getting your first credit card is exciting—but it’s not free money. Only charge what you can pay off in full each month. This builds good credit, which helps with renting apartments, getting loans, insurance and even job opportunities.
• Know Your Financial Aid & Student Loans – If you’re in school, make sure you understand your loan terms. Know what you owe, your interest rate, and when payments begin. Borrow only what you need, and consider making small payments now to save money later.
• Start Saving for Long-Term Goals – Whether it’s a car, travel, or moving out on your own—saving early makes reaching big goals easier. Even saving $25–$50 a month can add up faster than you think.

Now, see what you learned – take the quiz for your chance to win!

➡️ Click here for the Youth Challenge (13-17)

➡️ Click here for the Young Adult Challenge (18-21)

*Quarterly $100 Contest Giveaway: Members of Downeast Credit Union ages 13-21 may complete a quarterly quiz to enter the giveaway. Quiz should be delivered in person, completed online, or mailed to your local branch by the last day of each quarter. One random entrant will be selected each giveaway period and funds will be deposited into their DECU savings account. No purchase necessary; alternate option to enter is to send a postcard with your name, phone and address to your local branch. Winner may be responsible for any taxes on the winnings and may be asked to sign a media release. Federally Insured by NCUA.