Investing in Our Future: Celebrating Financial Literacy Month
Empowering students, veterans, and our communities, FAIRWINDS celebrated National Financial Literacy Month with hands-on education and guidance.
Each April, National Financial Literacy Month reminds us of the importance of equipping individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed financial decisions.
According to the National Financial Educators Council, a lack of financial literacy is estimated to cost U.S adults an average of $1,819 per year.
To help shine a light on the impact financial literacy efforts make in our communities, here are some of the ways we celebrated Financial Literacy Month this year, from teaching elementary and high school students to empowering those who have served.
How We Helped
We started Financial Literacy Month by volunteering with FAIRWINDS Foundation grantee partner, 8 Cents in a Jar, at the Teach Students Money Expo. High school students explored the simulated city of Eightville, making real-life financial decisions. As they visited different storefronts, they practiced budgeting, saving, and spending with the goal of achieving financial stability.
Adrian Kierulf-Velez, FAIRWINDS Community Relations Manager said, “It was a privilege to help students learn smart money moves today that will help them shape a secure and stable future.”
We had an inspiring experience volunteering with FAIRWINDS Foundation grantee partner, Junior Achievement of Central Florida, at their annual INSPIRE event – an immersive three-day career exploration fair for 15,000 eighth graders. The event aimed to empower students as future leaders and workforce contributors. Our crewmembers shared their career insights and expertise through hands-on activities such as Financial Literacy Bingo, Personal Finance Crossword Puzzles, and a popular cash machine, making the experience both engaging and educational for the students.
Erika Diaz, FAIRWINDS Talent Acquisition Specialist, volunteered at the event. “Not only did students have the opportunity to explore careers in the financial industry, it was a powerful reminder that financial literacy isn’t solely about managing money,” said Erika. “It’s also about recognizing opportunities that lead to financial stability and success.”
We were honored to host FAIRWINDS Foundation grantee partner Camaraderie Foundation's Mentor Leadership Program cohort for a powerful workshop on veteran success – covering topics like financial planning, investing, homeownership, retirement, career growth, and entrepreneurship. This program is a critical resource that empowers service members as they prepare to transition into civilian careers.
Why Financial Literacy Matters
Elisha Gonzalez, Vice President of Community Relations & Government Affairs and Executive Director of the FAIRWINDS Foundation, was featured in an April issue of the Orlando Sentinel discussing how vital financial literacy efforts are to the community.
Said Elisha, “Financial instability isn’t confined to any single income bracket. It affects families trying to balance rising costs, employees managing student loans, and retirees navigating fixed incomes. That’s why investing in financial literacy isn’t just a personal step forward — it’s a communal leap.”
“Community engagement also plays a vital role in expanding access to financial education,” continued Elisha. “Volunteers bring real-life experience and relatable stories to financial topics, which can otherwise feel intimidating.”
During Financial Literacy Month, our crewmembers stepped up in a big way and contributed to an incredible 275 volunteer hours in April alone. According to the Independent Sector, each volunteer hour is valued at $34.79 – adding up to nearly $10,000 invested back into our community through service, financial education, and meaningful impact.
Looking Ahead
While Financial Literacy Month has come to a close, our commitment to financial wellness is unwavering. Guided by our neighbors-helping-neighbors philosophy, we remain dedicated to building thriving, financially strong communities. By investing our time, talent, and treasure to help our members save more, eliminate debt, build wealth, and live generously, we’re moving entire communities closer to financial freedom.