(Woodbury, MN – August 4, 2016) Ideal Credit Union recently hosted two sessions of its popular “Money Talks” financial literacy program in July, attracting 58 students from around the metro area. The peer-to-peer program, led and taught by Ideal CU Student Credit Union employees, teaches students the building blocks of personal finance: budgeting, savings and investments, credit, and money management tools. Students in attendance came from all different locations, including Inver Grove Heights, Maplewood, Mahtomedi, Somerset, St. Paul, Centerville, Apple Valley, White Bear Lake and more.

“The overall program objective is to provide the ability to use knowledge and skills to manage financial resources effectively for a lifetime of financial well-being,” stated Ideal CU President/CEO Brian Sherrick. “Ideal Credit Union is committed to financial literacy and to helping youth develop lifelong skills for managing their money. This program is so important that I encouraged my two own daughters, ages 17 and 19, to take the class this summer and I am proud to say they both learned a lot and passed the course.”

Participants earned a $100 cash stipend for completing the day-long course and passing the “I’m Financially Ready” exam. All students must establish a Savings Account with Ideal before completion of the course in order to receive the $100 stipend.

Approximately 300 students have been through the “Money Talks” financial literacy program since its inception in 2013. To-date Ideal CU has awarded over $30,000 to students completing this program.

Ideal CU offers a suite of student financial products to help youth build their financial future, including Free Student Checking, a Student Savers CD and a unique Credit Builder loan to help establish that all-important credit rating.

Ideal CU has operated a student-run branch since January 2013 at Tartan High School in Oakdale, MN. Located in the DECA school store, the Ideal Student Credit Union is an innovative approach in business education, teaching students the basic principles and practices of the Financial Services Industry. The “Money Talks” educational series, developed in partnership with Tartan DECA students and school leaders, is held several times throughout the school year.

Founded in 1926, Ideal Credit Union is a member owned financial institution that specializes in providing excellent member service, great rates and convenience. Ideal CU offers a complete range of services, including a full suite of electronic banking products, savings, checking, loans, mortgage products and title services, exclusive VIP member payback, business services, investment services and more. Visit www.idealcu.com for details and locations.