04/07/2026
Last weekend, sixteen Foster Pride students joined the latest John A. Reisenbach Financial Literacy class, and the energy in the room was undeniable. For young people — especially those in foster care — understanding money isn’t optional. It’s essential. Without a financial roadmap, the path to stability and independence can feel impossible.
Led by financial planner Lauren Hepburn, what was supposed to be a two-hour class stretched into three because our students had so much on their minds. As Shanequa, 22, reflected, “No one usually talks about these things—how much they earn or how much credit card debt they have. It was really inspiring to hear people’s stories and get Lauren’s advice.”
Lauren encouraged students to be both bold and intentional about their financial futures—to dream, plan, and do the diligence required to move beyond their current circumstances. She spoke candidly about trade-offs and priorities: choosing a packed lunch to save for a goal, while also recognizing the importance of small treats that sustain motivation.
Above all, students left with a powerful message—to keep their eyes on the bigger picture while taking concrete steps toward it.
Alt Text: Images of students taking a financial literacy class and communicating with one another, one image features the group of students, one image showcases the teacher.
Sound: A jazzy, fun, upbeat soulful instrumental piece of music.
