North Star Credit Union of Cook has been honored with a 2016 Desjardin Youth Financial Education Award. The award, sponsored by the Minnesota Credit Union Network (MnCUN) and the Credit Union National Association (CUNA), recognizes leadership within the credit union movement on behalf of youth financial literacy.
Indian Education at North Woods School in Cook, MN, asked the students in North Star Credit Union’s Bunch of Students Saving (B.O.S.S.) program to speak with students in Academic Journey about financial topics such as money management and saving. Lowana Greensky, Indian Education Director, explained “Academic Journey’s mission is to introduce American Indian high school students to the culture of college through hands-on, realistic experiences”. North Star Credit Union’s education coordinator, Jody Feist, worked with the B.O.S.S. students to develop a presentation that aligned with their mission and would best benefit students.
The B.O.S.S. group understood it may be a challenge to help the students feel comfortable enough to have a conversation about finances and ask questions. The team started the presentation with an icebreaker that created a safe place for learning. Then, they utilized a MadCity Money workshop and small discussion groups. Finally, they introduced financial products that may be relevant based on the needs of the students.
The Credit Union’s winning entry will advance to the national competition, where it will compete with financial education projects from credit unions in other states.
Thank you goes out to the Deb Lewis, Indian Education Coordinator; Diane Brunner, Indian Education Assistant; and Julie Whiteman, Home School Coordinator, and Champ Chicagami who partnered with North Star Credit Union on this program.
Since 1939, North Star Credit Union has provided safe, high quality financial services to meet the needs of our communities and member owners; enhancing their financial education and well-being, while maintaining the strength of the credit union.