Programs That Empower, Educate, and Elevate
At Crayons and Coins, our programs are designed to create lasting change in the lives of youth from underserved communities. From classrooms to community centers, and from foster care to entrepreneurship, we meet students where they are - equipping them with the financial knowledge and tools they need to build a brighter future.
Financial Literacy Education Program (In Schools)
Our signature education initiative delivers classroom-based financial literacy sessions to students from kindergarten through high school. Using age-appropriate lessons, engaging activities, and guided readings of financial literacy-themed books, we teach the four pillars of money management: Save, Invest, Give, and Spend Wisely.
Programs are offered as:
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In-class sessions led by trained educators or volunteers
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School assemblies with interactive learning
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Guest readings and discussions around money-themed children's books
This program builds early awareness and lifelong habits to promote financial success.
Audience: K–12 students | Sites: Public and charter schools nationwide | Cost: Free
Community Financial Literacy Fairs
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These vibrant, hands-on events bring financial education to life in local communities. Hosted at trusted community centers, our Financial Literacy Fairs offer children and their families access to free workshops, games, tools, and resources focused on core financial principles.
Each fair includes:
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Interactive stations and money-related activities
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Financial literacy games and giveaways
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Access to educational materials, books, and budgeting tools
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Volunteer-led mini-workshops for kids and parents
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Audience: Families in underserved communities | Sites: Community centers | Cost: Free​
Community-Based Financial Literacy Courses
​In partnership with community centers, we offer structured, no-cost financial literacy courses tailored to children and teens. These multi-session courses provide a deeper dive into money management topics and help youth build the skills necessary to make smart, informed financial decisions.
Courses focus on:
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Budgeting and saving
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Earning and spending responsibly
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Building wealth through investing
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Goal setting and giving back
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Each session includes hands-on activities, real-life scenarios, and mentorship.
Audience: Ages 8–18 | Sites: Community centers in underfunded, minority-majority neighborhoods | Cost: Free​
Financial Literacy Courses for Foster Youth
Youth preparing to exit the foster care system often face adulthood with limited financial guidance. Our foster youth financial literacy program provides them with the essential tools they need to confidently manage money and navigate financial independence.
Curriculum highlights include:
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Banking basics
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Budgeting for independent living
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Understanding credit and loans
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Employment, taxes, and financial rights
This program is delivered in partnership with foster care agencies and support organizations.
Audience: Youth ages 16+ transitioning out of foster care | Sites: Foster care programs and transitional living organizations | Cost: Free
​Scholarship Program
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As a reward for commitment to financial growth, we offer scholarships to high school seniors who successfully complete our financial literacy coursework. This scholarship helps remove financial barriers and supports students as they pursue higher education or vocational training.
Eligibility Requirements:
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Successful completion of Foundation’s financial literacy courses
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Demonstrated academic commitment
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Community involvement and personal essay
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Award: Varies annually | Application Period: Opens each spring
Youth Entrepreneurship Grants
Innovation begins with opportunity. Our Youth Entrepreneurship Grant Program awards funding to young people with a passion for business and a desire to build wealth through entrepreneurship. These grants help youth develop or launch a business idea, from planning to implementation.
Recipients also receive:
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Mentorship and support from business professionals
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Business planning tools and resources
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Opportunities to showcase their venture
Audience: Ages 14–21 in underserved communities | Grant Size: Varies based on proposal and need | Application Period: Annually, with mentorship opportunities throughout the year
Ready to Make a Difference?
Whether you're a school administrator, community partner, parent, or student—there's a Crayons and Coins program for you.