Special to The Herald
Middle and high school students in Gadsden County recently finished an intensive nine-week program designed to build career skills and financial literacy.
The Money Moves program, established by the Big Bend Minority Chamber of Commerce, offered in-person instruction and hands-on activities to help participants set financial goals, manage money, and explore potential careers.
Havana Magnet Principal Thelma Hickman praised the local investment in student futures.
“We are thrilled to see our students embrace the Money Moves program,” said Thelma Hickman, principal of Havana Magnet. “This initiative gives them the tools and confidence to make smart financial decisions and explore career opportunities, setting a strong foundation for their future success.”
The curriculum focused on practical experience, including setting budgets, tracking personal spending, saving for short- and long-term goals, and making informed decisions about banking and credit. Career readiness was also a key component, allowing students to explore various career paths, build professional skills, and prepare for summer or year-round employment.
Participants applied their new knowledge through projects such as career simulations, personal budgeting exercises, and financial goal setting.
Upon successfully completing all sessions, students received a certificate and a $200 stipend for the skills they acquired.
Antonio Jefferson, president of the Big Bend Minority Chamber of Commerce, said the effort is vital to the region’s economy. “Money Moves not only prepares students for real-life financial decisions but also strengthens local economic growth by empowering the next generation with the skills they need to succeed,” Jefferson noted.
The program also served students in Jefferson and Wakulla counties. Kim Walker, who supported the program in Wakulla County, said, “This program helps students connect classroom knowledge to real life.”
The Big Bend Minority Chamber of Commerce and its partners plan to expand the Money Moves program this summer. The initiative was made possible through the chamber and CareerSource Capital Region, with additional support from Capital City Bank.
Photo Courtesy of the Big Bend Minority Chamber of Commerce
Cutline: Middle and high school students in Gadsden County that successfully completed the Money Moves program received a certificate and a $200 stipend for the skills they acquired.
