
YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee, a nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating racism and empowering women, has announced it has received a $10,000 grant from the U.S. Bank Foundation. As a new school year gets underway, the grant will be used to support YWCA’s Girls, Inc. programming in its money management and financial literacy education.
“Creating equitable opportunities for our community requires resources, and we appreciate the support from the U.S. Bank Foundation, which helps us continue to build and expand the innovative programs we’re proud to offer,” said Vanessa Helbig Johnson, senior director of Youth Services and executive director of Girls, Inc. Nashville. “The skills and knowledge students learn in Girls Inc. equip them to set goals, overcome obstacles, and improve academic performance. Three critical goals drive Girls Inc. programming: to help girls achieve healthy lives, succeed academically, and acquire the life skills needed to prepare them for adulthood and the workforce. Just as reading and writing are essential functions for success, so too are the basic principles of economics and money management.”
Girls, Inc. engages over 400 girls in its economic literacy curriculum annually through in-school clubs across two dozen Metro Nashville Public Schools, Spring Break Camp and Summer Camp programming. Girls, Inc. uses a research-based curriculum that enhances girls’ understanding of economic and financial concepts. The girls learn about money and the economy, including how to manage, invest, and save money, and how to help others through philanthropy. The students develop skills to help them become financially savvy, independent adults. More than 90% of girls increase financial literacy, critical thinking skills, positive beliefs about the future, and connection to others.
“Supporting financial education programs is an investment in today and our future. We’re proud to work with organizations like Girls, Inc. at YWCA Nashville to help students gain greater financial literacy and build thriving communities,” said Jeffery Mills, community affairs manager at U.S. Bank.
U.S. Bank is committed to powering human potential and creating lasting change in communities. The bank does this through the Community Possible platform, including philanthropy, community investments and team member volunteerism.






