Inspiring the Next Generation to Get Smart About Credit
HIGHLIGHTS
- The Get Smart About Credit initiative helps deliver financial literacy and credit education to young adults throughout the U.S., equipping them with essential skills for building healthy credit habits and bright financial futures
- This nationwide initiative is led by the American Bankers Association Foundation and helps expand economic opportunity for young people
- In 2025, more than 900 Citi volunteers participated year-round through practical workshops on credit building, budgeting and other forms of money management
In the United States, most adults hold a credit score. Seventy five percent of those making at least $25,000 a year use a credit card and that number spikes to 89% for those making over $50,0001. Given such widespread reliance on credit, understanding its importance — how it eases the process of renting apartments or buying a home, influences certain job opportunities and unlocks pathways to long-term financial security — is paramount. Establishing good credit habits early can profoundly shape the financial futures of young adults. As financial professionals, we should use all the tools at our disposal to help them on their journeys.
That’s why I am so proud of Citi’s participation in Get Smart About Credit (GSAC), a nationwide initiative led by the American Bankers Association Foundation. Throughout the year and with a specific focus during GSAC Month in October, Citi volunteers visit high schools, colleges and community centers across the U.S. to deliver financial education to students and young adults. With a mission of equipping young people with the knowledge and skills to maximize their financial futures, GSAC emphasizes the development of healthy credit habits, effective budgeting and informed financial planning from an early age. It also introduces college students to the world of financial services to help inspire careers and entrepreneurial goals.
As Chair of the American Bankers Association Foundation and Head of Citi’s U.S. Community Relations team, I’m always excited for GSAC Month and the opportunity to be in the community. This year, more than 900 Citi volunteers across the U.S. collaborated with organizations in the communities where they live and work for GSAC programming, sharing their expertise and inspiring the next generation. Just a few highlights included:
In New York City, volunteers judged the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurs (NFTE) challenge, evaluating student business pitches and demonstrating how understanding credit is often crucial for launching a successful business. Volunteers also engaged students from Phipps Neighborhoods in a credit building workshop and mentoring lunch at Citi Headquarters.
In Los Angeles, volunteers teamed up with the Weingart East Los Angeles YMCA to discuss credit topics with local teens.
In South Florida, volunteers delivered workshops on building strong financial reputations to the local Urban League of Broward chapter, while others hosted budgeting sessions at the East Tamarac Citibank branch or conducted savings workshops with Branches, a local Miami nonprofit.
In Sioux Falls, South Dakota, volunteers teamed up with the local Boys and Girls Club to connect with students on personal finance and credit-building concepts.
I also had the privilege of participating in GSAC this year, serving as a facilitator for a hands-on simulation in Charlotte, North Carolina. The session covered money management, credit and investing for a group of over 50 middle and high school boys. These young men brought such energy and enthusiasm to the classroom and you could see the wheels turning as they explored their financial options and shared reflections with the group.
The strength of GSAC stems from the curiosity and openness of each student participant and dedicated volunteer. Every individual, regardless of their specific role or area of expertise, has valuable insights to share. By taking the time to show up and pass these learnings on, we can each play a part in setting the next generation up for bright financial futures.
“Building strong credit habits early is one of the most important investments you can make in your financial future. When you’re just starting, it can have a huge impact on your financial foundation.”
– Mindy Mercaldo, Head of U.S. Branch Network
“Your professional experience, whether in finance or elsewhere, can provide others valuable skills and insights. By sharing this knowledge in financial education workshops for young adults, you have an incredible opportunity to empower the next generation.”
– Femi, New York, NY, Citi Volunteer
“When I volunteered during a Get Smart About Credit event in Sioux Falls, it truly showed me how sharing the basics of budgeting and saving can motivate and spark a lifetime of smart choices. It’s inspiring to see these young adults dream about their financial goals and gain the confidence to build healthy credit habits.”
– Stephanie, Sioux Falls, SD, Citi Volunteer
Citi volunteers deliver a financial education workshop on credit building at the Weingart East Los Angeles YMCA.
Citi volunteers and young adults from Branches engage in a series of financial education workshops at the Tamiami Citibank branch.
Students from Phipps Neighborhoods take part in a GSAC workshop and mentoring lunch with Citi volunteers at Citi Headquarters.