NASHVILLE, TENN. (AUG. 9, 2024) – YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee, a nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating racism and empowering women, today announced it has received a $10,000 grant from the U.S. Bank Foundation. As a new school year gets underway, the grant will be used to support YWCA’s Girls Inc. programming in its money management and financial literacy education.

“Creating equitable opportunities for our community requires resources, and we appreciate the support from the U.S. Bank Foundation, which helps us continue to build and expand the innovative programs we’re proud to offer,” said Vanessa Helbig Johnson, Sr. Director of Youth Services & Executive Director of Girls Inc. Nashville. “The skills and knowledge students learn in Girls Inc. equip them to set goals, overcome obstacles, and improve academic performance. Three critical goals drive Girls Inc. programming: to help girls achieve healthy lives, succeed academically, and acquire the life skills needed to prepare them for adulthood and the workforce. Just as reading and writing are essential functions for success, so too are the basic principles of economics and money management.” 

Girls Inc. engages over 400 girls in its economic literacy curriculum annually through in-school clubs across two dozen Metro Nashville Public Schools, Spring Break Camp and Summer Camp programming. Girls Inc. uses a research-based curriculum that enhances girls’ understanding of economic and financial concepts. The girls learn about money and the economy, including how to manage, invest, and save money, and how to help others through philanthropy. The students develop skills to help them become financially savvy, independent adults. More than 90% of girls increase financial literacy, critical thinking skills, positive beliefs about the future, and connection to others.

“Supporting financial education programs is an investment in today and our future. We’re proud to work with organizations like Girls Inc. at YWCA Nashville to help students gain greater financial literacy and build thriving communities,” said Jeffery Mills, community affairs manager at U.S. Bank.

U.S. Bank is committed to powering human potential and creating lasting change in communities. The bank does this through the Community Possible platform, including philanthropy, community investments and team member volunteerism.

For more information about Girls Inc. at YWCA and its programs, visit www.ywcanashville.com .

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About U.S. Bancorp

U.S. Bancorp, with more than 70,000 employees and $680 billion in assets as of June 30, 2024, is the parent company of U.S. Bank National Association. Headquartered in Minneapolis, the company serves millions of customers locally, nationally and globally through a diversified mix of businesses including consumer banking, business banking, commercial banking, institutional banking, payments and wealth management. U.S. Bancorp has been recognized for its approach to digital innovation, community partnerships and customer service, including being named one of the 2024 World’s Most Ethical Companies and Fortune’s most admired superregional bank. Learn more at usbank.com/about.

About YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee

For 125 years, YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee has helped women, girls, and families in Nashville and Middle Tennessee build safer, more self-sufficient lives. YWCA is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. Programs include Domestic Violence Services, Girls Inc. at YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee, AMEND Together, Dress for Success Nashville, Family Learning Center & Career Services, and Social Justice & Advocacy. For more information, visit https://ywcanashville.com, follow us on twitter @YWCANashville and find us on Facebook facebook.com/YWCANashville.     

Media Contact:
Michelle Mowery Johnson
VP Strategic Communications & Advocacy

615-424-0544/cell  | michelle.moweryjohnson@ywcanashville.com