In an innovative approach to education, Limestone Financial Credit Union (Limestone FCU) took financial literacy to new heights with their Financial Reality Fair in Chippewa County. This engaging program highlighted practical money management techniques for middle school students, building essential skills for future financial independence.

Interactive Learning Takes Center Stage

Limestone FCU kickstarted Financial Literacy Month with the Smart Money Mission: GooseChase Game, a creative initiative in collaboration with MSU Extension of Schoolcraft County. This mobile-based scavenger hunt introduced teenagers to financial concepts through a series of challenges designed to develop real-world money skills. The exercise was a massive hit among the youth, fueled by both curiosity and prizes, with focus areas ranging from setting SMART goals to understanding credit union services.

Jill Connin, Education Coordinator at Limestone FCU, emphasized the importance of such innovative learning methods: “The GooseChase encouraged teens to look beyond traditional textbooks and engage with money management in a practical, relatable way.”

Bridging Learning with Fun

Throughout April, Limestone FCU embraced various strategies to promote financial education, from pop-up trivia events at their branches to social media campaigns that challenged community members to elevate their financial knowledge. Their efforts extended to elementary schools where donations of Cinders McLeod’s Save It! sparked lively discussions about saving and spending through storytelling.

The climax of the month’s activities was marked by the Financial Reality Fair in collaboration with Joseph K. Lumsden Bahweting Anishnabe School. Designed specifically for middle schoolers, the fair sought to imbue 6th to 8th graders with money management skills, mimicking real-world financial decisions and challenges.

Preparing the Next Generation

Jennifer C. Watson, CEO of Limestone FCU, reiterated their commitment to fostering financial literacy, stating, “Our mission is to equip our community with the tools to achieve financial independence. We’re ensuring these lessons resonate with our younger generation, planting seeds of financial savvy from an early age.”

Looking forward, Limestone FCU plans to introduce a Matched Savings Program as part of its Adulting 101 course at Lake Superior State University, aimed at establishing critical emergency savings for young adults—a testament to their continuous efforts in financial education.

As Financial Literacy Month wrapped up, the cooperative spirit between educators, volunteers, and community partners highlighted a shared vision: to craft a financially informed future. One engaging challenge, one insightful lesson, and one inspiring conversation at a time are driving this mission forward.

For more information about Limestone FCU and its initiatives, visit limestonefcu.com. According to SooLeader.com, such efforts are truly shaping the minds of the future.