By John C. Asbury
John C. Asbury is chair of ABA and CEO of Atlantic Union Bank in Richmond, Virginia.
Not only do we celebrate the 150th anniversary of our organization, we also commemorate an important milestone for the ABA Foundation: 100 years of providing banks with the tools, resources and support they need to educate Americans of all ages on the importance of financial literacy.
The Foundation was formed in 1925 as the Foundation for Education in Economics Trust Fund, which sponsored college scholarships and research grants in economics, banking and finance. Since then, it has grown and evolved to what it is today: an organization dedicated to making a difference through our flagship programs: Teach Children to Save; Get Smart About Credit; Safe Banking for Seniors; and the Lights, Camera, Save! video contest.
These programs arm both children and adults with the financial know-how to make smart decisions with their money and make the most of their financial futures. Driving the success of these programs are banker volunteers who take these lessons out into their communities — to classrooms, senior centers and beyond — to reach people where they are.
With the help of bankers like you, the foundation has set an ambitious goal of reaching 5 million people with financial education lessons by 2026, and we’re already well on our way.
Beyond our flagship financial education programs, the ABA Foundation also plays an important role in helping veterans and their families access the financial system and maximize their benefits through the Veterans Benefits Banking Program. The Foundation’s Disaster Response Program is ready to mobilize quickly when disasters strike to help provide aid to local communities affected by wildfires, hurricanes, severe floods and other natural disasters. And each year, the Community Commitment Awards help recognize banks across the country for the work they do in a number of categories — from affordable housing to fostering financial inclusion to supporting military families.
Last year at ABA’s Annual Convention, I had the privilege of presiding over the Community Commitment Award presentation ceremony. The winning entries were certainly impressive, and hearing their stories filled me with a deep sense of pride for what we do. At the same time, I know that they are only a small snapshot of the incredible efforts America’s banks are making day in and day out in their communities.
As you continue with this work, know that ABA and the ABA Foundation are here to support you. Here’s to another 100 years of working together to educate and uplift our local communities.
