Building Financial Foundations with ACES

The ēCO Credit Union Foundation was excited to spend time with the students at ACES for an engaging conversation about an important part of preparing for the future: financial literacy.

We believe that learning about money should start early. Giving young people the knowledge and confidence to make informed financial decisions can help them build healthy habits that last well into adulthood. During our visit, we introduced the students to several foundational financial concepts and connected them to situations they may encounter throughout their lives. These concepts included checking and savings accounts, budgeting, and needs versus wants. We discussed the importance of understanding where your money goes and making thoughtful choices about how to spend it.

We also emphasized the importance of paying yourself first by setting aside money for savings and building an emergency fund. Even small amounts saved consistently can add up and provide a financial cushion when unexpected expenses arise.

The students also learned about interest, including the difference between earning interest on money you save and paying interest when you borrow. We even gave them a hand’s on look at how to properly write a check, a useful life skill even in today’s increasingly digital world.

Beyond the financial topics, we also talked about the importance of knowing how to write and sign your name. Throughout life, there will be important documents that require your signature, making this a simple but valuable skill to learn early.

This was our first time visiting the students at ACES, and we are excited to continue building this relationship. We look forward to returning often, going deeper into financial topics, and discussing the real-life skills that can help students feel confident as they prepare for their futures.
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The ēCO Credit Union Foundation is proud to invest in our young people and help build strong financial foundations, one conversation at a time.