As we step into a new year, I find myself reflecting on the countless teens who have inspired us with their drive and determination as they’ve embraced the tools and knowledge offered through SecureFutures’ programming. Each of these young people represents not just a changed individual but the potential to transform a family, a community, and even a generation.

The journey to breaking cycles of financial hardship is not an easy one. It requires the right knowledge, guidance, and opportunities—things many teens lack access to through no fault of their own. At SecureFutures, our mission is to bridge that gap, providing teens with the tools they need to build a brighter financial future.

The numbers are sobering: the median wealth of white households is nearly six times that of Black households and five times that of Latino households. Generational cycles, limited access to financial resources, and missed opportunities to build wealth have created barriers that persist for millions of families.

When I think about these statistics, I don’t just see numbers; I see the teens who have shared their stories with us. Stories of parents who’ve worked tirelessly but lacked access to financial education themselves. Stories of families navigating challenges that no one taught them to prepare for. And I see how the cycle continues—until it doesn’t.

Breaking generational cycles of poverty requires starting early. Research consistently shows that teens who receive financial education are more likely to save, budget, and invest as adults. They’re better prepared to handle financial emergencies and to build wealth that can transform their future and the futures of their families.

When we teach teens about money, we’re not just teaching them how to budget or save. We’re teaching them to think critically about their choices. We’re showing them how to set goals, plan for their dreams, and rewrite their own narratives.

At SecureFutures, we are deeply committed to addressing these barriers. In 2025, we aim to reach even more students, equipping them with the skills to make informed financial decisions and build generational wealth.

We’ll continue to innovate, bringing resources like Money Coach, Money Path, and Money Sense into classrooms and communities that need them most. These programs don’t just educate—they empower. They give teens the confidence to take charge of their financial futures and to become catalysts for change in their families and communities.

As we begin this year, I encourage each of you to reflect on the role you can play in breaking down barriers and building a future where financial opportunity is accessible to every teen, regardless of their background.

Whether you’re a parent, an educator, a mentor, or a supporter, your involvement matters. Together, we can create change that lasts for generations. If you’ve never volunteered with us before contact Stephaine Crosley at stephaine@securefutures.org to learn more. If you’d like to discuss funding opportunities, I can be reached at brenda@securefutures.org or 414-310-5920.

Let’s make 2025 a year of action, growth, and empowerment. The teens we serve—and the generations that follow them—deserve nothing less.