MANA de Kansas City Awakens Dreams through Financial Literacy Training
Thanks to a grant from the Women’s Foundation of Greater Kansas City MANA de Kansas City was able to enhancing the financial literacy and self-sufficiency of area Latinas. MANA’s mission is to empower Latinas through education, leadership development, advocacy and service.
For Women
MANA de Kansas City designed and developed a culturally relevant Financial Literacy and Self-Sufficiency Track presented as part of the UMKC Women of Color Conference (May 11). The conference drew over 400 area women. The sessions include a luncheon keynote and 4 interactive session led by area financial experts and business leaders, many of them Latinas. Sessions included: Show Me the Money, Minding Your Business, and Happily Ever After (investing and retirement).
In partnership with El Centro, MANA de Kansas City is also assisting with the design and development of a Financial Literacy Day (December 8th ). These sessions are designed specifically to meet the needs of new immigrant Latinas.
For Girls
MANA de Kansas City also co-sponsored experiential “Game of Life” financial simulations and role-playing.as part of the UMKC Women of Color Leadership Conference for High School Girls (May 10). Over 200 girls from 20 area schools participated in the conference day for High School Girls including many young Latinas
MANA de Kansas also City partnered with Girl Scouts to extend financial literacy programming into predominantly Latina Middle Schools not previously served by Girl Scouts. Ninety five (95) girls completed the 6-week Girl Scouts-MANA de Kansas City Financial Literacy programs at Argentine and Rosedale Middle School.
These after-school sessions featured weekly Latino guest lecturers from the financial sector and hands-on activities including goal setting, budgeting, and check writing. The final session included a pizza party and “graduation.”
The April-May program at Rosedale was received so well that school administrators incorporated the September-October program into the school day so girls would not have to miss any sessions due to conflicts with team sports activities or band. This program had impact!