Earn to Learn FL, a matched-savings financial assistance program, has launched an online platform to administer financial literacy training for students to improve their money management skills and budget for their technical training, professional certifications, or college degree programs.
To qualify for financial assistance, Earn to Learn FL requires students pursuing postsecondary education to successfully complete a series of financial literacy training courses, which ultimately will enhance their economic mobility. These courses are now available online, allowing students to access curriculum wherever they are and whenever it fits into their schedule. Learning plans are customized based on each students’ skills and knowledge, and lessons progress until students demonstrate a mastery of financial concepts and the ability to be financially independent.
Upon completion of required coursework, students and their families deposit up to $500 into a savings account. Earn to Learn FL’s supporters, which include businesses, foundations, government agencies, and community philanthropists, match savings at an 8-to-1 rate. Students then have access to as much as $4,500 that can be applied toward tuition, fees, books, and equipment required to complete a credentialed course of study or training. Students who remain eligible for Earn to Learn FL funding may renew financial assistance until they complete their postsecondary education.
Earn to Learn FL was founded in 2016 and has helped more than 100 students save over $51,000 to date. Additionally, more than $300,000 has been transferred to students’ accounts in matched-savings, making Earn to Learn FL the most successful matched-savings financial assistance program in the country. The ultimate goal is for students to graduate with minimal or no debt.
“Our goal for 2019 and beyond is to continue assisting Earn to Learn FL students on their journey towards financial security,” said Brenda Tate, CEO of Earn to Learn FL. “We believe that a fundamental part of that journey begins with holistic financial literacy training to prepare students for life after college. To support our efforts, we’re launching a personalized, web-based financial literacy platform to help our program scale for future growth.”
Among Florida students who have successfully completed the program, 82% identify as ethnic minorities and 73% are first-generation college students, statistics that reinforce Earn to Learn FL’s mission to help students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds complete their education.
About Earn to Learn FL
Earn to Learn FL empowers low-to-moderate income students in Florida to earn college degrees and professional certifications with little or no debt through matched-savings, personalized financial capability training, and success coaching. Eligible students who establish a habit of saving for higher education can receive matching funds for financial aid provided by Earn to Learn FL supporters committed to enhancing workforce development and the economic well-being of Florida communities. For more information, please visit EarntoLearnFL.org or call 239-908-0301.
