Citizens announced on April 13 a $2.85 million investment to support financial literacy education through 135 nonprofit organizations across 23 states, marking Financial Literacy Month.
The initiative aims to expand access to financial education and build confidence at key moments in people’s lives, including planning for college, managing daily finances, navigating tax season, and supporting small businesses. Citizens said its approach includes partnerships with nonprofits, employee-led workshops, and digital resources tailored to meet individuals where they are.
“Access to clear, practical financial education can make a real difference in how people navigate important moments in their lives,” said Bruce Van Saun, Chairman and CEO of Citizens. “Through our investments, our work with nonprofit partners and our colleagues’ engagement in communities, we’re focused on helping people build skills that support informed choices and long-term financial well-being.”
The funding will advance community-based programs focused on foundational skills such as budgeting and saving; culturally responsive education for underserved communities; free tax preparation; and initiatives supporting students with college planning. In the previous year alone, more than 4,000 students and families participated nationwide through Citizens’ College Bound webinar series.
Employees of Citizens deliver company-approved workshops under the Money Essentials program in English and Spanish—with plans to add Chinese modules—while also volunteering with national partners like Junior Achievement (JA) and Council of Economic Education. Additional efforts include volunteer income tax assistance (VITA), mentoring programs, and board service for nonprofits.
Support is also extended to entrepreneurs through Digital Doors—a partnership between Citizens and Mastercard—which provides small business owners with educational resources designed to help them adapt by building digital skills such as online presence management or accepting digital payments.
The New Jersey Business and Industry Association serves as the nation’s largest statewide employer association representing employers across various sectors according to the official website. The association advances competitive excellence while delivering essential information for members’ success according to the official website. Michele Siekerka serves as president and chief executive officer according to the official website, leading efforts that serve private-sector employers throughout New Jersey according to the official website. The association facilitates partnerships among businesses, government entities, academic institutions according to the official website, offering advocacy services alongside cost-saving benefits aimed at business prosperity according to the official website.
