#United States #Boston #OneUnited Bank #financial literacy #Youth Contest

OneUnited Bank Unveils 15th Annual 'I Got Bank' Contest

OneUnited Bank, renowned as America’s largest Black-owned bank and an award-winning Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), proudly announces the commencement of its 15th Annual "I Got Bank!" National Financial Literacy Contest. This engaging initiative is designed to inspire children aged 8 to 12 to cultivate financial literacy skills while also offering a chance to win significant prizes.

As part of the contest, participants are invited to read any financial literacy book of their choice. They can demonstrate their understanding and application of the concepts learned by either writing a 250-word essay or creating an art project. This not only encourages creative expression but also reinforces the principles of financial literacy that are crucial for navigating today's financial landscape.

To enhance accessibility for all participants, OneUnited Bank is offering a complimentary "I Got Bank" e-book. Teri Williams, the Bank's President and the author of the educational book, has played a pivotal role in shaping this initiative. Williams emphasizes the importance of financial education, especially for urban youth, stating, "We found there was a lack of resources aimed at teaching kids about money. Our goal is to equip the younger generation with the knowledge they need to succeed financially."

The contest is not just aimed at individual achievement; it also highlights the vital role of parents and educators in fostering financial literacy among children, as evidenced by a past survey revealing that all participants found the experience of engaging in the contest rewarding. The success stories of previous winners showcase the program’s effectiveness in raising financial awareness among youth.

Winners of the contest will be awarded $1,000 savings accounts at OneUnited Bank. Ten young financial whizzes will be selected, with all entries needing to be submitted by June 30, 2025, and winners announced by August 31, 2025. The Bank is committed to nurturing a culture where financial knowledge is accessible to everyone, enhancing the community’s economic empowerment.

The previous year's winners included talented youngsters from across the country, each showcasing impressive insights into financial management through their essays and projects. Noteworthy contestants comprised of Alana Williams from Charlotte, NC, and Malia Spurlin from Cerritos, CA, to name a few.

This year’s contest reaffirms OneUnited Bank’s dedication to financial literacy education as an essential component of the school curriculum from K-12 levels across the United States. The Bank has been recognized for its unwavering commitment to community service and development, having received the U.S. Department of Treasury's Bank Enterprise Award multiple times, underlining its role as a leader in financial innovation and community enhancement.

For parents and schools eager to engage their children and students in the contest, for further details regarding the rules and submission guidelines, visit OneUnited Bank's official site. Together, through initiatives like the "I Got Bank" contest, OneUnited Bank is forging a path toward a financially literate generation ready to embrace their financial future with confidence.

About OneUnited Bank

OneUnited Bank has established itself as a pioneer in the sociocultural space of finance, emphasizing community outreach and empowerment. As the largest Black-owned bank in the United States, it aims to bridge the gap in financial services access while advocating for economic equality and education. Through innovative programs like this contest, OneUnited Bank continues to play a significant role in fostering sustainable financial practices within the community.