1st National Bank Focuses Efforts on Financial Literacy
Berlin, Wisconsin, June 1, 2016 — Fortifi Bank of Berlin announced today that Amy Vetrone will assume the role of Financial Literacy Coordinator. Strongly focusing its efforts towards financial literacy over the last five years, 1st National Bank will now have a dedicated full-time employee to oversee and expand its efforts.
“Individuals face important financial decisions every day and we want to help them navigate those waters,” said Thomas Jensen, President and CEO of 1st National Bank. “With a dedicated Financial Literacy Coordinator, our team can further enhance community members’ lives through educational programing.”
Leading 1st National Bank’s Financial Literacy Team since 2013, Vetrone will now concentrate solely on financial literacy programing, which currently reaches thousands of school-aged children and hundreds of adults each year. From fun, learning activities for school-aged children to gamified-adventures for teens, students are learning smart money habits. In addition, young adults through senior citizens can also learn about important topics, from financial aid to financial exploitation.
“With limited resources before, we’ve built a strong program; now the future holds more power to change lives and I’m excited,” said Vetrone. “I’m proud to develop programs that help people become better financial stewards at each stage of their life.”
Through its Teach Children to Save program, the team presented to nearly 1,500 elementary school children, just in the month of April. In addition, this school year, over 1,000 middle school and high students participated in at least one 1st National Bank-sponsored program—whether it was MoneyIsland, Everfi®, or a mini-reality program, designed to simulate real-life financial decision-making.
“In addition to offering these well-rounded educational programs, we also offer scholarship opportunities,” said Vetrone. “Each year, we award five $1,000 scholarships to graduating seniors who’ve completed the Everfi® program—a true testament to our commitment to educating.”
1st National Bank has been recognized for its commitment to Financial Literacy, winning the Governor’s Award for Financial Literacy in 2012 and 2014. In addition, Vetrone has also received accolades for her work, winning the Wisconsin Bankers Association Financial Literacy Banker Award in 2014-15. She is currently a member of the financial literacy advisory board with the Wisconsin Bankers Association.
Educators, organizations, or community groups interested in learning more about 1st National Bank’s Financial Literacy Program may contact Vetrone at 855.876.1500 or visit MyFirstNational.com/financial-literacy.
