Introduction
Regions Bank is committed to providing students with the financial education necessary for future success. Through its innovative Regions Next Step Reality Check program, the bank offers engaging, practical financial education to help young people navigate real-world financial situations. These events focus on teaching essential budgeting skills and sound financial decision-making.
Hands-On Financial Education
The Regions Next Step Reality Check events began in early November, immersing students in a simulated financial management experience. Participants make real-life financial choices and learn the consequences of their decisions, aiming to finish the exercise with a balanced budget. This hands-on approach gives students invaluable insights into effective money management.
Outreach Efforts in Southwest Florida
Regions Bank teams have been actively conducting Next Step Reality Check sessions across Southwest Florida, recently stopping at Fort Myers Technical College. “We worked with various departments, including Mortgage, Commercial, Retail, Wealth, and Community Affairs, to bring these educational events to the area,” explained Earnest Wilks, Business Administrative for Regions Bank in Sarasota, Bradenton, and Fort Myers. The sessions are designed to help young people develop the skills needed for informed financial decision-making.
Engaging Financial Literacy Programs
During these sessions, Regions associates guide students through managing monthly financial responsibilities, such as housing, utilities, transportation, food, savings, charitable donations, entertainment, and earning additional income. Renato Freitas from Fort Myers Technical College noted, “The students were eager to learn about financial well-being from Regions Bank. This interactive method makes financial literacy engaging and accessible, especially for those with limited exposure to these concepts.”
Successful Initiatives and Expansion
These educational seminars, typically held every six to eight weeks, have seen success in Lee and Collier counties, leading to an expansion to Charlotte County next month. “Regions Bank’s dedication is further evidenced by its partnerships with community organizations like Quality Life Center, Urban Strategies, Guadalupe Center, Goodwill, and Pace Center for Girls,” said Cynthia Valenti Smith, Naples Market Executive and Mortgage Production Officer. “Together, we aim to make financial education enjoyable for young people in our region.”
Community Partnerships and Impact
In Shreveport, Regions Bank teamed up with Volunteers of America of North Louisiana to host two Reality Check events. These sessions at Booker T. Washington High School’s LightHouse after-school program focused on teaching students to manage debt and avoid financial pitfalls. “It’s about understanding the value of money,” said Denny Moton, Market Executive for Regions Shreveport. “This experience is crucial for students preparing for college, helping them manage expenses like tuition and books.”
Building Financial Foundations
The second event in Shreveport took place at the Teen Club, a safe space for high school students to engage with positive mentors. Regions volunteers helped 12 teenagers create and balance budgets, applying classroom math to real-life financial situations. Anna Whittenbarger, Vice President and Trust Advisor in Private Wealth Management for Regions Bank, highlighted the importance of these sessions. “These events offer vital knowledge on saving, investing, and debt management, promoting financial stability and success in both academic and professional pursuits.”
Conclusion
Regions Bank’s Next Step Reality Check program significantly impacts youth financial education, preparing students for financial success. By partnering with community organizations and offering practical, hands-on learning experiences, Regions Bank helps young people build the skills they need to confidently manage their financial futures.