EMBRACE LIMITLESS POTENTIAL
Better financial literacy correlated to positive wealth-building behaviors including participation in stock market and retirement plans (Lusardi, 2015).
This is not just a regional or national issue, but a significant global problem. Our children are our future. Borders and regional divides should not determine the level or opportunity for education.
Providing equal educational opportunities to all regions and all children, connecting the world –
that's what "Peace Begins with A Smile" stands for.
PROBLEMS
Lack of financial literacy and career access opportunities trap disadvantaged youth in cycles of inequality and poverty. Marginalized young people often lack access to quality financial education programming and professional guidance to develop essential money management skills or pursue abundant career paths. This knowledge gap surrounding personal finances and career-readiness perpetuates vulnerability.
Without interventions that make financial literacy education and professional mentors accessible, underserved students remain ill-equipped to make smart money decisions or competitively pursue business, technology, and finance jobs. Over time, this compounds inequality and reduces economic mobility.
MISSION
We are dedicated to empowering youth in underserved communities by equipping them with essential financial knowledge and skills necessary to make smart financial decisions.
CHALLENGE
• 76% of US adults are reported as living paycheck to paycheck, underscoring financial fragility issues (CNBC, 2022)
• Surveys suggest 29% of adults have no retirement savings and social security remains inadequate, threatening poverty later in life (NIRS)
• Only 19 states require high school students have a personal finance course before graduating (CEE)
• Study linked early exposure to financial education to better savings rates and credit management later in life (CFPB, 2018)
• Women score lower on financial literacy assessments worldwide than men on average (S&P Global 2021)
• Gender biases still restrict women's financial access - over 1 billion women globally remain unbanked (World Bank, 2020)
• Young adults in families with lower education/incomes tend to score markedly lower on financial tests (Mottola, 2014)
WHO WE SERVE
● Low-income or economically disadvantaged youth
● Marginalized or at-risk youth
● Minority and underrepresented communities
● Urban and rural communities
● Educational institutions and community organizations
SOLUTION
Financial Education Programs
Comprehensive financial education programs will be designed specifically for youth. These programs will cover a wide range of topics, including budgeting, saving, investing, understanding credit, and entrepreneurship. The organization will prioritize making these programs creative, engaging, and interactive to ensure that young people develop practical financial skills and knowledge.
Mentorship and Guidance
Strategic Partnerships
Providing mentorship and guidance will be instrumental for youth who hold interest in pursuing careers in business, technology, and finance. We will establish a network of experienced professionals who will serve as mentors and role models, offering guidance, advice, and support to students. This mentorship will play a crucial role in helping students navigate their career paths, gain insights into various industries, and develop the necessary skills to succeed.
In line with our vision, we plan to actively foster strategic partnerships with public and private institutions, as well as established service providers in the financial and educational sectors. PBWAS will collaborate with schools, colleges, financial institutions, and other non-profit organizations to expand the reach and impact of its programs. By leveraging these partnerships, PBWAS will gain access to additional resources, expertise, and funding opportunities, further empowering youth and promoting financial literacy.
Bringing Smiles,
Building Peace
We invite you to join our cause at Peace Begins With a Smile, a newly established 501(c)(3) organization. With your support, we can turn our vision into reality and empower underserved youth through financial literacy.
To achieve our mission, we need seed funding. This funding will enable us to create tailored financial literacy programs and establish crucial community partnerships that will make a lasting impact on generations to come.
Your contribution ensures sustainability and helps us continue making a difference. By becoming a donor, you'll play a vital role in empowering youth with financial access and education. Together, we can create a brighter future for underserved communities.
Join us in advancing community-focused financial literacy programs nationwide. Together, let's make a positive change and inspire smiles of hope and opportunity for underserved youth.