High School Seniors Awarded Altra Foundation Financial Education Scholarships

June 13, 2022 –​ The Altra Foundation is dedicated to providing financial wellness opportunities for youth and adults in the communities they serve. The Foundation’s definition of financial wellness is having the skills to develop financial goals, budget, manage debt, invest, and maintain good credit. 

The Altra Foundation Financial Education scholarship was available to high school students (grades 9-12), ages 13+. To be eligible, applicants needed to complete various modules through their partnered Banzai program, which is offered on Altra’s website or through teacher’s classrooms. Applicants did not need to be members of Altra Federal Credit Union to participate or win. 

The Altra Foundation selected two winners this year for the Financial Education scholarship. Caeli McMahon from Melrose-Mindoro High School (WI) and Olivia Gardner from Cotter High School (MN) will each be receiving a $5,000 scholarship. 

When asked if they had any advice for others interested in taking the course, Gardner said “really pay attention to every course and even taking the additional side courses. [The course] is really helpful for someone going to college, knowing how to budget and knowing how to spend money wisely.” 

McMahon added “There are a lot of things that I know I learned in the program that I even think about now when I’m trying to make my financial decisions. The program really helped me to learn how to spend my money, save my money, and everything financial.” 

Both recipients agreed that they would recommend the Banzai program to others their age. 

A check presentation was held for the award recipients at the Altra Federal Credit Union Operations Center, located at 1700 Oak Forest Drive, Onalaska, WI 54650 on Monday, June 13th at 11:00am. 

It is important to remember that it is never too late to learn how to handle your finances. If you are interested in learning more or donating 

Caeli Mcmahon 4

Caeli McMahon from Melrose-Mindoro High School (WI)

Olivia Gardner 3

Olivia Gardner from Cotter High School (MN)

The Altra Foundation is dedicated to providing financial wellness opportunities for youth and adults in communities we serve. The Altra Foundation’s definition of financial wellness is having the knowledge and skills to develop financial goals, budget, manage debt, save, invest, and maintain good credit.

It’s important to remember that it’s never too late to learn how to handle your finances. If you are interested in learning more or donating to the Altra Foundation, visit www.altrafoundation.org.