Wells Fargo’s greater Washington workforce will participate in the company’s inaugural Day of Service, an event that enables company employees to align their efforts and expertise to make a positive impact in local communities, address complex societal issues, and help build a more inclusive, sustainable future for all.
“Financial education is vital, but it’s just one ingredient in the recipe for financial success,” said Ben-James Brown, vice president of financial health-philanthropy at Wells Fargo. “To truly thrive, individuals need access to opportunities, wealth building resources, and a supportive network that serves as the finishing touch to complete the meal. My hope is that today’s event with the youth provides the foundation for building awareness and habits that will nourish their long-term financial wellbeing.”
Among Wells Fargo’s efforts, nearly 100 employees will partner with Junior Achievement of Greater Washington (JA) to provide financial literacy education at JA Finance Park, an immersive and hands-on learning experience that gives middle and high school students a crash course in the realities of earning, spending and saving money.
In-classroom lessons culminate in a daylong simulation at one of JA’s three local Finance Park locations, where volunteers mentor students as they navigate real-life situations while managing a personal budget.
Graduates of JA Finance Park call it an eye-opening and memorable experience that increases their understanding of what’s needed for lifelong financial health.
“Volunteers like our partners at Wells Fargo are the ‘secret sauce’ that brings JA Finance Park to life,” said Lynne Ford, JA’s interim president and CEO. “By sharing their everyday financial experiences, volunteers help students grasp the reality of the simulation and use their newfound knowledge to make smart choices. We are grateful to partners like Wells Fargo that invest in financial health to empower our young people with the skillset and mindset to build thriving communities.”
For more information about Wells Fargo, contact Kenrick Thomas at 202-875-9146 or Kenrick.P.Thomas@wellsfargo.com.
