Fund Your Future Event Teaches Financial Literacy to the Community

Credit management among topics discussed at workshop

MAY 4, 2018--Nearly 100 students, parents and members of the community listening attentively to presentations by Rabobank and Wells Fargo representatives during Fund Your Future, a financial literacy workshop hosted by Allan Hancock College’s University Transfer Center (UTC).

“We can’t stress enough how important events like Fund Your Future are,” said Maria Arvizu-Rodriguez, UTC counselor. “Topics such as consumer finance and managing credit are not typically taught in the classroom, and we want our students and parents to know how important their money is.”

Sofia Fuen also saw the value of financial literacy and brought her entire family to emphasize the importance of money management to her children.

“I want my children to learn how to manage their money and how to grow it so they can live better and have confidence wherever they go,” said Fuen.

Wells Fargo representatives presented the financial planning portion of the workshop. Vice President and Branch Manager Blanca Jeronimo acknowledged how their corporate presence supported an initiative by the American Banker’s Association.

“This month is specifically about teaching children to save, and that’s what we want to do: to support our students and their futures by teaching them money-saving techniques,” said Jeronimo.

Oliver Moran raised his hand to ask a question during the credit management presentation by Rabobank.

“What about interest rates?” he asked. “How high can they go?”

Moran is studying graphic arts and hopes to transfer to Fresno State next year. He is currently navigating the financial aid process.

“I really wanted to understand more about credit and how to start building it,” said Moran. “I want to be as knowledgeable as possible to avoid debt after I graduate.”

“We have knowledge we can share,” said Rabobank Associate Project Manager Susan Appel.

“We want to empower students, families and the entire community by giving them the tools they need to manage their money and make responsible, informed decisions. It’s an important piece to why we invest back in the community.”

The evening concluded with bilingual breakout sessions on financial aid at the community college and university levels. The University Transfer Center will host additional Fund Your Future workshops next year.

- AHC -

Caption: Nearly 100 students and parents listened to presentations by Rabobank and Wells Fargo at Fund Your Future, a financial literacy event.