We make financial decisions every day, from the coffee we buy to the cars we drive and the retirement plans we set in motion. Financial literacy is an invaluable life skill, yet for many young people, understanding personal finance can feel like navigating a maze. Fortunately, Total Community Credit Union (TCCU) is here to help, offering programs that aim to teach kids and teens the fundamentals of financial literacy.


Empowering the Next Generation

The importance of financial literacy cannot be overstated. It lays the groundwork for responsible financial behavior, influencing everything from budgeting to investing. Total Community Credit Union recognizes this and is working to address it through educational initiatives tailored for young people.

TCCU’s Kids Club and teen sessions are designed to be engaging and accessible. They break down complex financial concepts into bite-sized lessons that are easy to understand. From the basics of saving and budgeting to exploring credit and loans, these sessions equip young people with the knowledge to make informed financial decisions as they grow older.


Tailored Programs for Every Age Group

One of the standout features of TCCU’s outreach efforts is how the programs are tailored to different age groups. For younger children, TCCU offers accounts with rewards for saving, focusing on money management, the importance of saving, and distinguishing between needs and wants. For teenagers, the classroom sessions dive deeper into advanced topics like credit scores, interest rates, and debt. Real-life scenarios help teens understand the long-term consequences of financial decisions and emphasize planning for the future.

TCCU ensures these lessons are fun and engaging, making sure kids aren't just passive listeners but active participants in their learning.


Building Confidence and Independence

These programs do more than just teach financial skills—they build confidence. By learning about budgeting and responsible spending early, kids and teens gain confidence in their ability to manage money. This empowerment fosters a sense of independence that serves them well throughout their lives.

Moreover, engaging with financial education at a young age helps students avoid common financial pitfalls as they grow older. Equipped with knowledge, they are better prepared to manage expenses, avoid debt, and make sound investments, contributing to a more secure financial future.


Collaborating for Community-Wide Impact

By collaborating with educators, TCCU is able to reach a broader audience and tailor its programs to the specific needs of the communities they serve. This collaboration ensures that financial literacy lessons are reinforced at school and at home, creating a consistent and supportive learning environment.

“The collaboration between parents, teachers, and our credit union strives to make financial literacy a community-wide effort,” said Maranda Carrell, Branch Manager at Total Community Credit Union. These programs are not just about imparting knowledge but about building a supportive environment where young people feel comfortable asking questions and seeking guidance.


Long-Term Benefits for the Community

The impact of these programs goes far beyond the students who participate. By fostering a generation of financially literate young people, TCCU is contributing to the long-term economic health of the community. Financially savvy individuals make sound decisions, support local businesses, and contribute to the overall prosperity of the area.

“The ripple effect of financial literacy is incredible. When kids share what they’ve learned with their peers, the impact spreads throughout the community,” says Carrell.

In a world where financial literacy is more critical than ever, Total Community Credit Union is stepping up to ensure the next generation is prepared. This investment in our youth will pay dividends for years to come, benefiting not just individuals but the entire community.