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November 21, 2013

1st National Bank Partners with Mrs. Midwest International to Tackle Financial Literacy

November 2013, Berlin, Wisconsin--1st National Bank announced this month that they have joined forces with Jayne Black, Mrs. Midwest International 2014, to spread the important message of Financial Literacy amongst all ages.
1st National Bank, headquartered in Berlin, Wisconsin, recognizes that financial literacy is critical at all ages, but especially in children, as important financial decisions are presented to younger demographics every day. As part of their mission, the bank has dedicated a team of people to reach out to schools and organizations with financial literacy programs--free of charge.
Reaching over 2000 people in 2012 with their message, the bank's financial literacy efforts gained recognition from the Governor of Wisconsin. They were the recipient of the Governor's Award for Financial Literacy, the only bank recognized in Wisconsin that year.
1st National Bank has two programs dedicated to school-aged children: Money Island™ and EverFi™. MoneyIsland™, for grades 4 – 8, puts financial management skills in terms kids understand--exciting, multi-level adventure. MoneyIsland™ is an online world that engages children, while teaching valuable financial lessons.
EverFi™, for grades 9 – 12, is a new-media learning platform that uses the latest technology – video, animations, 3-D gaming, avatars, and social networking – to bring complex financial concepts to life for today's digital generation. Topics covered include credit score, insurance, credit cards, taxes, and mortgages.
New in 2014, the bank will introduce two financial literacy scholarships. Students that participate in EverFi™, receive certification, and submit a letter of recommendation, will be eligible for one of two $2,500 scholarships for higher education.
"The next step for our financial literacy program was a natural one," stated Amy Vetrone, financial literacy team lead at 1st National Bank. "Partnering with Jayne Black will magnify our message, while we offer our resources to support her platform."
Jayne Black is a certified financial education teacher, national financial literacy ambassador, and national spokesperson for the $avings Fund for the National Financial Educators Council. Black is also a speaker, international writer, and professional blogger.
Experiencing negative financial impact within her own family, Black made a commitment to drive the change needed to educate the public on smart financial health. She created Saving Smart for 5 Generations, a program founded to create awareness that financial health and physical health are interconnected. Black realized the need to create a place for individuals of all ages to gain stronger money skills.
Together, 1st National Bank and Black will share their message with audiences at seminars, special events, schools, senior centers, and other events. For more information, visit www.FirstNationalBanks.biz or www.JayneBlack.com.
1st National Bank, headquartered in Berlin, Wisconsin, has been providing quality banking services since 1896, and is located in nine Wisconsin communities. Their mission to fulfill the dreams of people, businesses, and communities, is met through providing innovative financial solutions. Member FDIC.