The 100 Black Men of Metropolitan St. Louis held a financial literacy competition to help young people build money skills.
The “Dollars and $ense” contest took place on April 5 and encouraged students to learn how to budget, save, and manage credit. Participants built financial plans for mock clients, showing how to reduce debt and increase savings.
The event focused on teaching youth how to handle money in uncertain economic times. Carter Higgins, a 7th grader, said financial literacy isn’t discussed in school, making the contest an important learning experience.
Jeremiah Hathorn, president of the St. Louis chapter, said budgeting and cash flow planning are key lessons they teach. The local event is part of a national program run by 100 Black Men of America, in partnership with State Farm, to address financial illiteracy among youth of color.
In St. Louis, the program runs from January to June for high school students. It prepares them for college and teaches long-term money habits. Students are tested through quizzes and competitions and can earn scholarships.
The top three winners from St. Louis will compete in the national contest this year in New Orleans.
