Getting you finances in order, and keeping them in good order can be a challenge for even the most organised among us. The Financial Planning Association of Australia (FPA) has a philanthropic arm called Future2 that awards grants to to community not-for-profit organisations with programs for socially and financially disadvantaged young Australians. This year they recently awarded a grant of $10,000 to the Byron Youth Service (BYS) to assist young people to become more financially literate.
Teeya Blatt, Manager of the Byron Youth Service said, ’The idea of offering a financial literacy course came from young people themselves, in a survey we conducted in 2016. We asked year 9 and 10 students what they would learn if they could learn anything they wanted, and it was surprising how many answers were practical, basic know-how: how to do taxes, how to budget etc. Getting this grant is so satisfying because it means we’ll be able to respond to that feedback.’
The funding will provide the $-Smart Youth financial literacy course participants with workbooks, receipt holders and calculators to encourage students to maintain their learning well beyond the time of the course.
‘The outcomes of this course are numerous,’ said Ms Blatt.
‘Young people transitioning to adulthood will be empowered with knowledge of the real costs of living, get basic budgeting skills, understand superannuation and how to build savings. Such knowledge is sure to increase their confidence and self-esteem. Not only that, the course will provide them with a supportive peer group in a youth-friendly setting and will connect them with a larger section of community including services that builds their resilience.’
Larissa Zimmerman, owner of National Financial Fitness, a business recognised by ASIC for its financial literacy expertise, will facilitate five courses in Byron Bay and Mullumbimby for up to 20 participants in 2018, with a BYS youth worker on hand to support young people with any life challenges they may be experiencing. This whole of person approach highly increases likelihood of successful engagement.
Future2 Chair Matthew Brown said ‘the grants come as a result of FPA members’ continued efforts to raise funds for grassroots programs that transform the lives of young people who have had a tough start in life.’
If you would like to find out more contact the Byron Youth Service, 66857777 or click here.
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