The iconic Finance Park at the Gus A. Stavros Institute has a new resident as the YMCA’s of Greater St. Petersburg and YMCA of the Suncoast joined the Pinellas Education Foundation in cutting the ribbon on their new storefront. The YMCA’s sponsorship of the Pinellas Education Foundation’s Finance Park program represents a ten year commitment to the program totaling $50,000.
Established by the Pinellas Education Foundation two decades ago, Finance Park was created by the Pinellas Education Foundation in response to demand for an interactive, real-world simulation for eighth-grade financial learning. The program was modeled after the successful Enterprise Village for fifth grade students, launched a decade earlier.
Finance Park serves 10,000 students annually, with an emphasis on applying math and decision-making skills to manage a household budget. Students are randomly assigned life profiles including marital status, children/dependents, and household income which create the framework for powerful lessons in financial literacy. Students are also encouraged to explore industry-specific career information available at the facility, inspiring the eighth-grade students to explore options for their future.
“We are thrilled to partner in this manner, enhancing our impact on middle school students through financial literacy and health,” said David Jezek, President/CEO of the YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg.
"Helping every child live to their fullest God-given potential is a goal of the YMCA of the Suncoast. Our strategic plan identifies middle school youth as a priority. This exciting partnership is an important step in helping us accomplish our goals.", says G. Scott Goyer, President/CEO of the YMCA of the Suncoast.
According to Dr. Stacy Baier, President of the Pinellas Education Foundation, “We are excited to partner with the YMCA as they join the community of Tampa Bay Area businesses represented in Finance Park. The day that our students spend here will positively impact our students for the rest of their lives.”
The new YMCA Finance Park facility will provide students information about making sound healthy lifestyle choices within the framework of a well-rounded life and financial plan.