OneUnited Bank Launches 15th Annual “I Got Bank!” Youth Financial Literacy Contest

Press Release | OneUnited Bank, the largest Black-owned bank in the United States and an award-winning Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), is excited to announce the return of its nationally recognized “I Got Bank!” Financial Literacy Contest for young people. Now in its 15th year, the program continues to empower youth with essential financial education while rewarding top participants with real-world savings accounts.

This year, ten winners will each receive a US$1,000 savings account, helping them take their first step toward building long-term financial security. As part of the initiative, OneUnited Bank is also offering a free “I Got Bank” E-Book to encourage families to engage with personal finance topics together.

The contest invites children aged 8 to 12 to deepen their understanding of money matters by reading a financial literacy book of their choice. Participants can then demonstrate what they have learned by either submitting a 250-word essay or creating an original art project that illustrates how they would apply those lessons in everyday life.

All entries must be submitted via email or postmarked by June 30, 2025. Winners will be announced by August 31, 2025, and each will open a US$1,000 savings account at OneUnited Bank.

The contest was inspired by OneUnited Bank President Teri Williams, author of “I Got Bank! What My Granddad Taught Me About Money,” published by The Beckham Publications Group, Inc. (Beckham House). The idea came after Williams noticed a lack of age-appropriate financial education resources tailored to urban youth.

“I’m proud to see this program continue to grow and make an impact,” said Williams. “In a recent survey of past participants, 100 percent said the experience was valuable or extremely valuable – and 100 percent confirmed it increased their awareness around personal finances.”

The Bank extends its gratitude to parents and educators who continue to support and encourage students to participate in this important learning opportunity.

For full contest details and submission guidelines, visit: www.oneunited.com/book

Source: OneUnited Bank