MIAMI, FL (March 4, 2013) – South Florida Educational Federal Credit Union (FCU) celebrated the opening of its newest high school branch, Generals Credit Union (CU) on February 28. Located inside Miami Jackson Senior High School, the student-run branch will operate as part of the Credit Union’s in-school branch program.
Generals CU is South Florida Educational FCU’s eighth in-school credit union branch to open since 2010.
“The Credit Union is proud to partner with Miami Jackson Senior High School. This endeavor will benefit everyone – from our students, to teachers, and even their parents, said Michael DiBenedetto, President/CEO. We have always been an advocate of financial literacy and giving back to the educational community. Implementing a student-operated credit union is the perfect way to help these students get real-world financial exposure.”
Generals CU creates an opportunity for students to learn basic banking skills in a safe environment. Students gain valuable real world internship experience serving as tellers, member service representatives and marketing staff. Under the management and mentorship of South Florida Educational FCU, students are responsible for opening new accounts, conducting transactions, and motivating their fellow students to save money. Participating students also receive honors credit through Miami-Dade County Public Schools’ Career Experience Opportunity (CEO) Program.
“The experiences students have with their credit union today are the building blocks towards a lifetime of financial responsibility,” added DiBenedetto.
South Florida Educational FCU also conducts classroom workshops as part of its award winning “Got Green?” financial literacy program. Topics include goal setting, money management, budgeting, investing, and credit management. Last school year, “Got Green?” reached the largest number of Florida students and ranked second nationwide in financial literacy outreach, according to the National Youth Involvement Board (NYIB). The NYIB tracks financial literacy presentations among credit unions.
To learn more about South Florida Educational FCU and its programs, send an email to Youthed@sfefcu.org or call 305-270-6696.
South Florida Educational Federal Credit Union is the largest Credit Union headquartered in Miami-Dade County and serves educators, students and the families of Miami-Dade County Public Schools and Miami Dade College. South Florida Educational FCU is committed to increasing educational opportunities for students in Miami Dade County. Please visit www.sfefcu.org/aboutus/community.html for more information.