PREVIEW: The Art of Education: Young Futures Paints a Path to Financial Literacy
04/26 @ The Blake Annex, Albany
“Financial literacy is essential, and yet, no one is teaching it — especially not to kids. We believe when children understand money, they grow up to lead lives of freedom and purpose. This event is about celebrating that growth.”
A remarkable local organization, Young Futures, is set to celebrate a significant achievement by honoring local youth for their dedication and hard work. The Financial Literacy Art Show will take place on Saturday, April 26th, from 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM at The Blake Annex in Albany, NY. This vibrant community event recognizes the accomplishments of young participants who have completed a 25-hour financial literacy course, with 100% of the proceeds going directly to the youth.
Founded in 2015 by community leader James Mitchell, Young Futures has established itself as an institution dedicated to fostering health and wellness through innovative art and educational programs. Mitchell, who has worked as a youth advocate and career services representative since 2007, emphasizes family, self-determination, and unity in his approach to community service.
Young Futures has collaborated with various organizations, including the Boys and Girls Club, Sunnyside Center, Youth FX, Ben & Jerry’s, The African American Cultural Center, and Mission Accomplished Transition Services. Through these partnerships, they have hosted numerous after-school programs, summer activities, and weekend family events.
In the past year, Young Futures leaders have researched the significance of the creative economy in the Capital District, recognizing the value of equipping students with alternative income-generating skills. This research led to the development of the Financial Literacy Arts program, which merges art and craft skills with lessons in financial literacy.
The program aims to instill crucial financial principles in students aged 6 to 15, covering topics such as budgeting, banking, assets and liabilities, equity in homeownership, and leveraging money through interest and credit. By engaging in creative expression, students learn responsible financial decision-making, preparing them for adult responsibilities.
At the Financial Literacy Art Show, guests can look forward to enjoying student-created art, custom merchandise, food, refreshments, and ice cream, while also learning about the importance of financial education from the program participants. Each ticket or donation supports the youth, helping them understand the tangible value of earning, saving, and giving.
“Financial literacy is essential, and yet, no one is teaching it – especially not to kids,” said Mitchell. “We believe when children understand money, they grow up to lead lives of freedom and purpose. This event is about celebrating that growth.”
Attendees will have the chance to win artwork in a community raffle and interact with students eager to share their knowledge about budgeting, saving, investing, and more—all through their creative endeavors.
To purchase a ticket or make a donation, visit linktr.ee/youngfuturesco. Donations are also accepted via Cash App or Venmo at $YoungFuturesCo.
Join us in uplifting the next generation of financially empowered leaders and take home something beautiful in the process!
Photos by Indigo Picozzi