40+ years F&M Bank employee Phil Sblendorio leads a tour for students at F&M Bank’s main office in downtown Long Beach.

Financial Literacy

Making informed decisions about money is important. Not doing so can have serious consequences. It’s never too early—and never too late—to learn about financial literacy. From a high school student’s first job, to taking out loans for college or a car, to managing a household, financial literacy can be the foundation toward self-sufficiency and well-being. And, for many employers who rely on a talented workforce that lives near their work, it can be a balance of stability for both sides. Read on to see what three Orange County Business Council investors—a family-owned bank, Farmers & Merchants Bank, a public school in Huntington Beach—Kinetic Academy—and two nonprofits—Goodwill Orange County and Orange County United Way—are doing to build financial confidence among students and families in Orange County.