July/August 2012 - Invest Native Project Empowers Youth to Make Good Financial Decisions

Twice each year, in the spring and fall, First Nations Development Institute hosts the InvestNative online financial education challenge. We partner with high schools and American Indian Business Leaders (AIBL) to conduct the event.

During the challenge, Native American students take online classes that help them learn the basics of saving, investing and money management. First Nations started the project because there is such a huge need for that type of education in American Indian communities. It’s all part of First Nation’s mission to invest in and create innovations that strengthen asset control and support economic development for American Indian people and their communities. This project empowers Native youth to make good financial decisions.

We were supported in this effort by the FINRA Investor Education Foundation and the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. The FINRA Investor Education Foundation’s mission is to provide underserved Americans with the knowledge, skills and tools necessary for financial success throughout life.

In the spring of 2012, more than 125 youth participated in the challenge. Among those who completed the eight online lessons, winners were selected at random to receive an iPod Touch or iPad. Besides high schoolers, some students at tribal colleges also participated.

Congratulations to the winners this past spring. In the accompanying photos are Mariah (red hoodie) from Shiprock High School on the Navajo Nation in Shiprock, New Mexico;  Lyle (green shirt) also from Shiprock High School ; and Tyus (black shirt) from Meskwaki High School at the Meskwaki Nation at Tama, Iowa.

You can help First Nations in its mission. Please give generously online or through the mail.