May 14:  Teaching Teens and Youth How to Build Financial Independence

–submitted by Sharyn Alden

On May 14, Rotary speaker, Robert Wynn, Found and CEO of CLIMB (Communities Learning to Invest and Mobilize for Business) provided insight into how they are helping youth gain personal wealth and economic stability.

Wynn said it all started with the question, “Why don’t we laser focus programs in terms of improving the capacity to build wealth for young people, especially black kids from low-income homes? “Our programs, accessible nationwide, are focused on youth and families, people of color, who have historically been underserved.”

Oregon High School senior, Pierre Nickles shared his experience as a CLIMB Youth Leader. Nickles, who has had the privilege of ringing the bell at the NY Stock Exchange, said, through CLIMB, he has learned a wide range of financial skills, including the power of compounding and the ‘Rule of 72.’

“Investing is a needed skill for financial freedom,” he said. “I’ve learned there is no age requirement to gain financial wealth.”

Wynn added, “If we are not economically successful, nothing changes, but if we are successful, we can transform the future.”

If you missed our meeting last week, you can watch it here:  https://youtu.be/SBNV1FQD4jE.

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