How it works

Step 1: Entry & Readiness

Youth complete a financial awareness survey
SBYF staff help gather documents needed to open an account
Each youth is matched with a financial mentor who walks alongside them
Step 2: Tiered Financial Literacy (Ages 16-23)

Tier 1: (Ages 16–17)Smart Money Habits

Youth complete a financial awareness survey
SBYF staff help gather documents needed to open an account
Each youth is matched with a financial mentor who walks alongside them
Step 2: Tiered Financial Literacy (Ages 16-23)

Tier 2: (Ages 18–20)Transition to Independence

Youth complete a financial awareness survey
SBYF staff help gather documents needed to open an account
Each youth is matched with a financial mentor who walks alongside them
Step 2: Tiered Financial Literacy (Ages 16-23)

Tier 3: (Ages 21–23) Financial Independence & Future Planning

Youth complete a financial awareness survey
SBYF staff help gather documents needed to open an account
Each youth is matched with a financial mentor who walks alongside them
Step 2: Tiered Financial Literacy (Ages 16-23)

Smart Money Skills

What is financial Literacy?

Financial literacy is freedom. At SBYF, we believe that building independence starts with learning how to manage money, avoid financial traps, and plan for the future. Our Smart Money Skills program equips foster youth and young adults (ages 16–23) with the tools, confidence, and hands-on experience to create a life beyond survival.

Financial Coaching

Every participant is matched with a trained financial coach who:

Provides personalized guidance
Helps youth understand credit, budgeting, and financial goals
Supports mindset shifts around money and independence

Additional Support

Employment Prep & Internships – Job-readiness workshops, mock interviews, and potential paid internships through community partners.

Why It Matters

Financial instability is one of the greatest barriers foster youth face as they age out of care. By teaching financial literacy, providing banking access, and helping youth build responsible money habits, we prepare young adults for independence, stability, and generational wealth—starting now.

Interested in this program? Contact us for more information.