Winter 2025/2026 Youth & Young Adult Education

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

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.