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Helping the Next Generation Build Strong Financial Habits
At Kitsap Credit Union, empowering the next generation starts with education—and Youth Accounts are a powerful first step. Through hands-on financial tools and real-world learning, young members can begin building confidence with money early on.
Working closely with students across Kitsap, Mason, Jefferson, and Pierce counties, Outreach Coordinator David Inglish sees firsthand how early financial education can shape lifelong habits. By partnering with local high schools, David helps students complete Financial Wellness courses and learn how to make smart, confident financial choices.
Why Starting Early Matters
“Youth accounts are so important because they create opportunities to learn about money at every stage of life,” David explains. “Childhood is a huge developmental period—and that includes understanding finances.”
Just as importantly, youth accounts open the door for conversations. Whether it’s asking questions, practicing saving, or learning to budget, these early experiences help remove the mystery around money and build comfort over time.
Making Money Management Engaging
Kitsap Credit Union’s Kids Club accounts make learning about money fun and memorable. From tracking savings to earning rewards like a piggy bank and giveaways, kids get excited about managing their money. Plus, interactive tools like It’s a Money Thing videos introduce financial concepts in a way that’s engaging and easy to understand.
Turning First Jobs into First Lessons
As teens head into summer jobs, a youth account becomes even more valuable. Having a place to save and grow their earnings (while earning dividends and using budgeting tools) helps them see the bigger picture.
David encourages teens to pause before spending:
“Think about what your money can do long term. What kind of lifestyle do you want? Then break that down into steps—and start with what you can do right now. That usually means saving some of your paycheck… but not all of it. You still want to have fun!”
Starting Conversations at Home
For families, a summer job is the perfect opportunity to start talking about money. These conversations don’t have to be complex—what matters most is simply starting.
“Talking about money helps reduce anxiety and builds confidence,” David says. “It might feel a little uncomfortable at first, but that’s okay. Start small and build from there.”
Building Confidence, One Step at a Time
For David, the most rewarding part of this work is being there at the beginning of a young person’s financial journey.
“It’s incredible to help students realize that money doesn’t have to be stressful—it can create opportunities,” he shares.
His advice for families is simple and encouraging:
“The best time to start was yesterday. The second-best time is today. Ask yourself, ‘What can I do right now?’ Even small steps—a few dollars saved or a quick conversation—can make a big difference.”
With the right tools and support, today’s youth can build strong financial habits that last a lifetime. And with Kitsap Credit Union, they don’t have to do it alone.
Get started today: https://kitsapcu.org/personal/youth/.
Insured by NCUA.
Working closely with students across Kitsap, Mason, Jefferson, and Pierce counties, Outreach Coordinator David Inglish sees firsthand how early financial education can shape lifelong habits. By partnering with local high schools, David helps students complete Financial Wellness courses and learn how to make smart, confident financial choices.
Why Starting Early Matters
“Youth accounts are so important because they create opportunities to learn about money at every stage of life,” David explains. “Childhood is a huge developmental period—and that includes understanding finances.”
Just as importantly, youth accounts open the door for conversations. Whether it’s asking questions, practicing saving, or learning to budget, these early experiences help remove the mystery around money and build comfort over time.
Making Money Management Engaging
Kitsap Credit Union’s Kids Club accounts make learning about money fun and memorable. From tracking savings to earning rewards like a piggy bank and giveaways, kids get excited about managing their money. Plus, interactive tools like It’s a Money Thing videos introduce financial concepts in a way that’s engaging and easy to understand.
Turning First Jobs into First Lessons
As teens head into summer jobs, a youth account becomes even more valuable. Having a place to save and grow their earnings (while earning dividends and using budgeting tools) helps them see the bigger picture.
David encourages teens to pause before spending:
“Think about what your money can do long term. What kind of lifestyle do you want? Then break that down into steps—and start with what you can do right now. That usually means saving some of your paycheck… but not all of it. You still want to have fun!”
Starting Conversations at Home
For families, a summer job is the perfect opportunity to start talking about money. These conversations don’t have to be complex—what matters most is simply starting.
“Talking about money helps reduce anxiety and builds confidence,” David says. “It might feel a little uncomfortable at first, but that’s okay. Start small and build from there.”
Building Confidence, One Step at a Time
For David, the most rewarding part of this work is being there at the beginning of a young person’s financial journey.
“It’s incredible to help students realize that money doesn’t have to be stressful—it can create opportunities,” he shares.
His advice for families is simple and encouraging:
“The best time to start was yesterday. The second-best time is today. Ask yourself, ‘What can I do right now?’ Even small steps—a few dollars saved or a quick conversation—can make a big difference.”
With the right tools and support, today’s youth can build strong financial habits that last a lifetime. And with Kitsap Credit Union, they don’t have to do it alone.
Get started today: https://kitsapcu.org/personal/youth/.
Insured by NCUA.
May 18, 2026