Effingham and Mattoon – Washington Savings Bank partnered with Altamont Junior High School, Altamont Lutheran School, Beecher City Junior High, Effingham Junior High, Mattoon Middle School, and Teutopolis Junior High School to bring savings education to the Effingham and Mattoon area students in celebration of Teach Children to Save Day on April 25, 2024. Bank volunteers presented during April and May to just over 1,000 6th – 8th-grade students on the importance of saving money, the difference between needs and wants and how setting goals can make a difference.

Teach Kids to Save was established in 1997 by the American Bankers Association along with other financial education initiatives available for member banks to utilize. The Teach Kids to Save program has reached 11.6 million young people through the commitment of more than 275,000 banking volunteers.

“Familiarizing students with financial education fundamentals at an early age can help put them on a path toward becoming smart money-managing adults,” said David Doedtman, President and CEO. “Teach Children to Save is a great opportunity for us to share our passion for financial education and improve our local communities.”

Washington Savings Bank strives to push financial literacy year-round for people of all ages. During the summer months they promote financial competence to kids through their WSB Summertime CEO program. In the fall, Get Smart About Credit for high school-age students, and Safe Banking for Seniors. Follow their social media pages for continued financial literacy tips and updates.