“When we plant a seed, it’s not going to grow today and it’s not going to grow in a week, but eventually, you will see growth, and that’s what Money Coach did for me. It gave me that growth that I needed to learn the language of money.”

-Antonio

At our recent Your Two Cents event, alumni of our Money Coach program shared how mentorship and financial education transformed their lives. Before joining the program, many described their relationship with money as impulsive and uncertain.

When Masohn first got paid every two weeks, his check would disappear almost immediately. Like many teens, he was an impulse spender. “I’d spend a whole check and wonder, ‘Where did my money go?’ Money Coach helped me realize that my money is important, and I should be using it for what I need rather than just what I want.” For Masohn, the program wasn’t just about learning to budget; it was about shifting his mindset.

Yasmeen had a similar experience. “I had a very rocky and impulsive relationship with money. Now, I can pay my bills on time, still afford the things I want, and have money left over for savings.” The transformation was more than just about numbers—it was about security, independence, and control over her financial future.

At the heart of these stories is the power of mentorship. Every Money Coach participant is paired with a dedicated mentor, someone who offers guidance, support, and real-world financial wisdom. Masohn described his coach Tom as “a best friend who knows more than you do, which is exactly what you want in a best friend.” His coach shared personal budgeting struggles and advice, making financial capability feel approachable and achievable.

Brandon’s mentor, who he refers to as Miss S., changed his entire outlook on money. “She taught me how to mature my money and understand that my money works for me—I don’t work for it.”

Keriay, echoed that sentiment, recalling her mentor, Money Mike. “He was super reliable, which I adored about him the most. Even after the program, he helped me through my college journey as a first-generation student. He genuinely cared.”

Money Coach doesn’t just change how teens manage their money—it empowers them to take control of their futures. Antonio used the knowledge he gained to navigate high-interest car payments and start investing. Lilyana built her credit and leased her first car without a cosigner. Kat made informed decisions about student loans that shaped her college experience. These lessons don’t stop with them – they go on to share what they’ve learned with their families, friends, and communities.

Brandon, the youngest in a family of 14, was encouraged by his parents to pass along what he learned about credit building, investing, and the importance of saving. Brandon’s ultimate goal? To help his family build financial security so that one day his parents can retire.

Yasmeen took what she learned and shared it with her father, helping him think about saving for important long-term needs like a home or a car. And Kat incorporated financial education into her work in housing services where she guides youth experiencing homelessness through financial conversations that impact their housing options. She also helps international students understand financial systems when they come to the U.S.

For Lilyana, the impact was so profound that she became a Money Coach volunteer. “Financial literacy is a privilege, and I wanted to give other students the chance to have that privilege too.”

Antonio described the Money Coach program as planting a seed. “When we plant a seed, it’s not going to grow today and it’s not going to grow in a week, but eventually, you will see growth, and that’s what Money Coach did for me. It gave me that growth that I needed to learn the language of money.”

These alumni have carried their Money Coach lessons into adulthood, proving that financial education isn’t just about numbers—it’s about confidence, independence, and breaking cycles. With every new student who enters the program, another young person gains the tools to build a secure and thriving future.

Your support makes these stories possible. By investing in Money Coach, you’re not just funding a program—you’re investing in the financial futures of teens who will go on to make lasting changes in their lives and communities. Help us continue to provide this life-changing opportunity to more students. Because sometimes, all it takes is a mentor to change the course of a life.

Donate today and be part of their change.