Financial Literacy Program

As a community credit union it is our responsibility to give back to the people of Kauai and educate consumers on pertinent issues.

Fulfilling the credit union philosophy of "people helping people", Kauai Community Federal Credit Union (KCFCU) has developed a comprehensive financial literacy program to address the growing concern for the diminishing level of financial literacy in our nation and more specifically, in our own community. We hope that through free educational programs and opportunities such as those listed herein, we can help to improve the lives of many on Kauai and provide a strong foundation for future economic well being for our local community.

The average student that graduates from high school lacks the basic skills in management of personal financial affairs. Many experience difficulty in balancing a checkbook and have little insight into the basic survival principles involved with earning, spending, saving and investing. Yet students are not the only ones suffering. Half of all Americans live paycheck to paycheck and in a 2001 survey conducted by the International Society of Certified Employee Benefit Specialists, 96% of employees said they wanted and need financial education and advice. Our community needs us and we are answering the challenge to combat financial illiteracy.

Kauai Community Federal Credit Union is making a difference. Our Financial Literacy Program addresses the need for additional financial education in our schools as well as in our community as a whole. The following information details the components of KCFCU's current program to help our friends and family on Kauai achieve financial independence.

FREE CLASSROOM PRESENTATIONS
FREE financial education sessions designed to educate students on the basics of financial success. Formatted presentations fit a 50 minute class. The following NO-COST sessions are available for middle school students:

The following NO-COST sessions are available for high school and college students:

KCFCU is also able to develop sessions, upon request, for additional topics of choice. For more information or to schedule a session, please call Terri Kaniho at 808-245-6791, ext. 227.

SCHOLARSHIPS

Higher Education Scholarships
At KCFCU we strongly endorse the pursuit of higher education. This is why we now offer five, one thousand dollar ($1,000) scholarships to graduating high school seniors. All graduating high school seniors accepted and planning to enroll full time in any two or four year institution of higher learning are eligible. Recipients must be enrolled as full time students, be members of the credit union in good standing and be willing to have their picture published. The scholarship will be paid directly to the school of the student's choice to be put toward educational expenses such as tuition, books, fees, supplies and room & board.

Academic Excellence Recognition Scholarship
In addition to these five $1,000 scholarships, each year KCFCU offers a $200 Academic Excellence Recognition Scholarship to a graduate of Kauai Community College.

For more information on KCFCU Scholarships, please visit our website at www.kcfcu.org and visit the Your Choice page under Youth Programs, or contact Terri Kaniho at 808-245-6791, ext. 227.

RESOURCES & MATERIALS
KCFCU will provide all materials, when applicable, for the above mentioned sessions free of charge. In addition, KCFCU offers comprehensive financial products and services for all members as well as tailored programs for youth. Building Blocks for ages 0-12, Smart Savers for ages 13-16 and Your Choice for ages 17-24. Materials on all of these services will be available at sessions.

ADULT EDUCATION
Any of the above student sessions as well as the following NO-COST sessions are available to all KCFCU members and business partners:

For more information on adult education or to schedule a session, please contact Terri Kaniho at 808-245-6791, ext. 227.

Descriptions of Financial Literacy Seminars

Middle School
Smart Saving
This session shows kids the difference between a savings account and a piggy bank. We will discuss what dividends are and how they work, how to use an ATM card responsibly and the difference between a savings account and a checking account. Students will learn the value of saving over time by determining how long it would take them to become a millionaire. Finally, students will learn what it takes to be a smart saver and we will offer tips for making the most of your allowance.

Budgeting Basics
It is never too early to learn the basics of budgeting. This interactive session teaches students what budgets are and why they are important. Students will learn how to make a simple budget to help them save for their next trip to the mall or accomplish long term goals. In addition, we will look at examples of how small purchases every day add up and how to avoid bad spending habits.

Cost of Cool
This session will cover the importance of differentiating between wants and needs. We will look at the costs of brand name clothes, games, cell phones, etc. and discuss alternatives. This session will discuss the power of advertising and how to look beyond it to be a savvy shopper. We will offer students tips for looking cool for less, buying games with your own money and how to prepare for high school, college and beyond!

High School & College

Check it Out
In this session, students will learn about the responsibilities and benefits that come with owning a checking account. Students will learn how to properly write and endorse checks as well as how to record transactions and balance a checkbook. This session will also introduce students to the Visa Check (Debit) Card. Finally, students will learn about Travelers Cheques and official checks.

Give Me Some Credit
This session will cover the basics of credit cards including explanations for the sometimes confusing terms and understandable interpretations of all that fine print. Students will learn the dangers associated with credit cards and tips to avoid common mistakes. In addition, students will learn the difference between all the different types of cards and what to look for when comparing the abundance of credit card options. This session will go one step further by explaining what a credit score is and how credit cards fit in. We will review why it is important to establish good credit and offer tips on how to keep your credit in good standing. This session is a must for students headed off to college or entering the workforce.

Your Choice Money Management
In this session, students will learn how to create their own budget. We will provide tips on how to manage a budget successfully and more importantly, how to stay within a budget. This session will offer tips on how to save for the future and discuss why budgeting is essential to achieving financial goals. This session offers the foundation for financial independence and success.

Get Connected
This session is designed to introduce all components of convenience banking. Students will learn how to use an ATM to its full capacity, the advantages of using online banking (Home Banking - ebranch) and online bill payment services (Bill Payer), how to use the automated phone system (Accessline) and the advantages of direct deposit. We will walk through each of these FREE KCFCU services with students and answer any questions regarding security, timeliness of information, etc. You never have to step foot into a branch again!

Adult Education
Your First Home
This session is for first time home buyers or for those who want to learn more about purchasing a home. We'll give you all the tips and tools to help you work towards purchasing your dream home. In addition, we will explain the entire process of home buying and prepare you for realtors, inspectors, and lawyers. This session is a must for first time home buyers and will help make this exciting new step in your life much easier.

Auto Buying Tips
Whether you are buying a new or used vehicle from a dealer or an individual, this session is for you. Before purchasing your next car, be sure you know how to get the best possible deal. This session will offer insight into automotive terminology, warranties and financing options. We will prepare you to walk into a dealership with confidence and walk out with a great deal. In addition we will offer tips for buying used cars and what your options are when buying from an individual.

Expect the Unexpected
This session includes topics that are typically at the end of your priority list. However, they are some of the most important issues you will face in your lifetime. Let us help prepare you for these important and sometimes difficult stages in your life. This session will discuss the importance of wills and why they aren't just for the elderly. In addition, we will touch on Auto & Homeowners Insurance, Long-Term Care Insurance, Cancer Insurance and Pre-paid Legal Services. And finally, we will discuss the growing threat of identity theft and offer suggestions on how to protect your identity.

ABCs of Investing
Have you thought about investing but don't know where to start? Are you unsure what the advantages and disadvantages are? This session teaches you the basics about investing and why people invest. KCFCU's Financial Advisor will explain the risks associated with investing and describe some basic investment options such as mutual funds, annuities, and IRAs. This session will provide you with a general understanding of investing so that you may make an educated decision on which options best suit your needs. In addition, you will be able to meet our Financial Advisor and set up an appointment if you want to discuss your personal options in more detail.

Managing Debt
Are you living from paycheck-to-paycheck? Are you having trouble making ends meet and continuing to fall deeper into debt? This session will provide the real life scenarios and advice for how to manage your debt more efficiently. We will provide tips and tools for creating your own budget, saving more and developing a plan to achieve your financial goals.

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