Cochran-Johnson’s Bold Vision for DeKalb County's Future

Empowering Futures: Chase and Emerging 100 Host Back-to-School Event

Update Chase and Emerging 100 Impact Children's Futures in Summerhill In a unique initiative that melds essential education with financial empowerment, Chase Bank and The Emerging 100 of Atlanta organized a back-to-school event on Saturday that handed out over 400 backpacks filled with school supplies to children in the Summerhill community. The event wasn't just about distributing supplies; it also aimed to combat financial disenfranchisement, an issue profoundly affecting communities across the nation. A Community Empowered Through Knowledge The Chase Bank Community Center buzzed with excitement as families engaged in insightful conversations about financial literacy and wealth-building. Attendees had the opportunity to learn about building credit, investment strategies, and managing small business finances through workshops led by JPMorgan Chase banking professionals. Mathilda Lambert, Harry the Hawk, and Sydnee Scruggs provided valuable insights that underscored the importance of financial education in fostering an empowered generation. The Importance of Financial Literacy Aaliyah Davis, who participated in the event with her nephew, expressed the significance of financial workshops for today’s youth. “Workshops like this prepare the younger generation so that when they get older, they know how to effectively build credit and invest,” Davis noted. The event’s emphasis on combining traditional back-to-school supplies with financial education provides a dual benefit that parents and children alike can appreciate. Addressing Financial Disparities The backdrop of Summerhill is a poignant reminder of the systemic challenges many residents face. Once considered a banking desert, the area has seen economic transformation yet continues to grapple with issues like rising costs and limited financial access. According to recent data from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Black and Hispanic households are 3% more likely to be credit invisible than their white counterparts, highlighting the persistent inequities that initiatives like this one address. Building Bridges: Community and Education Mathilda Lambert, vice president of community and business development at JPMorgan Chase, commented on the distinctive nature of this event. “While there are many back-to-school events, combining school supplies with financial literacy allows us to bless people on both ends,” she said. This multifaceted approach reflects a growing acknowledgment that educational equity must include financial education. The Road Ahead: Future Initiatives As Chase Bank continues to roll out community outreach and financial literacy initiatives across metro Atlanta, this event serves as a significant milestone. Daniel Farr, president of The Emerging 100 of Atlanta, emphasized the critical importance of discussing finance amid a widening wealth gap in the country. “When you see the wealth gap widening in this country — and in our community — it’s incredibly important that we are discussing finance,” he stated, calling for continued conversation and action in this realm. This event is a shining example of how collaborative efforts can effect real change, encouraging more organizations to consider ways in which they can contribute to educational and financial empowerment within communities. With the right tools and knowledge, children in these communities can not only prepare for success in school but also build a strong financial future. Emphasizing the collective responsibility of nurturing future generations, Chase and Emerging 100 of Atlanta invite everyone to recognize the power of financial literacy and community engagement. Let’s carry this momentum forward!