The 2024-25 school year is in full swing and Westerra Credit Union continues its commitment to local schools through several initiatives, including the launch of the Westerra Financial Literacy (WFL) Program.

“The goal of our WFL Program is to em­power members, local schools, and the greater Denver community with resources and education to navigate our constantly changing, and sometimes confusing, financial times,” said Kristina Shaw, Vice-President of Corporate Communications at Westerra. “Also, since we know our members and community learn in different ways, the WFL specifically features diverse learning methods, including virtual seminars, in-person presentations, and digital tools.”

As part of WFL, Westerra has teamed up with “Zogo,” an app that offers bite-sized lessons and interactive quizzes on various financial topics. It is open to members and non-members, with users earning “Pineapple Points” based on how many modules they complete. These Points then can be traded in for gift cards and other incentives. More information, including how to download the Zogo app can be found at westerra cu.com/financial-literacy.

In addition to this digital financial literacy experience, Westerra will continue to offer virtual and in-person seminars, one-on-one coaching sessions, and classroom-based presentations about financial literacy. This includes the popular “Money Matters for Kids” presentation, which reached over 874 students in more than 10 schools last year. To request a presentation, which is now avail­able in Spanish, email engagement@westerracu.com.

As Westerra continues to cultivate relationships with school districts, new teachers and staff at Denver Public Schools, Cherry Creek Schools, Jefferson County Schools, and the Jefferson County Administrators Association are encouraged to stop by the Westerra table at their New Hire Events this month! Westerra also proudly serves on two School Board Foundations and once again participated in A Precious Child’s annual back-to-school supply drive.

Lastly, the Westerra School Grant Program is ramping up for another year. Westerra funds $50,000 annually to our educators in Colorado school districts through the School Grant Program. Westerra mem­­bers who are educators serving Early Childhood Education through Grade 12th in any Colorado school district are welcome to apply starting August 30, 2024. Application details can be found at wester ra.com/community after this date.