Lansing, MI (April 29, 2025) |
In celebration of April as Financial Literacy Month, Michigan credit unions once again stepped up to deliver vital financial education resources across the state through the Michigan Credit Union Foundation (MCUF)-funded Smart Money Kids Read program, alongside other key initiatives.
The Smart Money Kids Read program, a longtime partnership between Michigan credit unions and the Michigan Financial Wellness Network (MFWN), made 17,000 children’s books available this year to youth and families. Public libraries across Michigan received 9,000 copies of Save It! by Cinders McLeod, while 8,000 additional copies were distributed through 53 participating credit unions. In total, 156 libraries partnered with 55 credit unions, with nearly half of the libraries working directly with a local credit union to host engaging literacy and financial education events.
"Credit unions are committed to supporting financial well-being at every life stage," said MCUF Executive Director Andrea Tucker. "Smart Money Kids Read is a powerful example of how early financial education can create stronger futures. By partnering with libraries and community organizations, Michigan credit unions are making an impact that will benefit families and communities for many years to come."
In addition to Smart Money Kids Read, Michigan credit unions championed financial literacy through several other initiatives this month:
- Financial Reality Fairs:
Year-to-date, 91 Financial Reality Fairs have been hosted or scheduled by 33 Michigan credit unions, reaching more than 9,600 students. In April alone, 25 fairs were hosted by 30 credit unions, reaching nearly 3,000 students. Chapters like the UP Chapter and Crossroads Chapter collaborated to expand their reach through multi-credit union events. - Personal Finance Challenge:
Sixteen high school teams competed at the Federal Reserve Bank, in Detroit on April 23, analyzing a real-world financial case study before advancing to a fast-paced quiz bowl. Chelsea High School claimed victory and will represent Michigan at the National Personal Finance Challenge in Cleveland this May.
For more information on Michigan credit union financial education initiatives, visit MCUF.mcul.org.