Last Thursday, nearly three dozen students from Brockton Public Schools embarked on an educational journey to Bentley University, where they learned the intricacies of stock market investing. This initiative, organized by the nonprofit Empower Yourself, aims to provide underprivileged students with essential financial education and STEM opportunities that are often out of reach.
Key Takeaways
- Empower Yourself: A nonprofit dedicated to providing financial education and STEM experiences to underprivileged students.
- Hands-On Learning: Students engaged in practical activities, including mock trading sessions, to understand stock market dynamics.
- Community Impact: The program not only enhances individual skills but also fosters a sense of community and hope among participants.
A Day of Learning at Bentley University
The students arrived at Bentley’s stock trading room, where they were greeted by finance majors who guided them through the basics of investing. The room was alive with the buzz of stock tickers and financial data, creating an authentic trading environment.
Participants, dressed in professional attire, took on the role of traders, making educated guesses on stock movements for companies like Google and Facebook. This hands-on experience was not just about learning; it was about igniting a passion for finance and investment.
Henry Ani, a 15-year-old participant, expressed his excitement: "I like the way that we have to try to predict the future and make educated guesses."
The Vision Behind Empower Yourself
Cedric Turner, the director of Empower Yourself, founded the nonprofit with a mission to bridge the racial wealth gap and provide opportunities for students who might not otherwise have access to such resources. His background as a mutual funds accountant highlighted the lack of diversity in the financial sector, motivating him to create a program that offers hope and opportunity.
Turner collaborates with local universities and museums to provide a comprehensive educational experience, including competitions and internships. He believes in showing students what is possible and opening doors to their futures.
Success Stories from the Program
The impact of Empower Yourself is evident in the success stories of its participants. Montserrat Diaz Botello, who developed a passion for engineering through the program, shared her journey: "If you would have told me four years ago, ‘Oh you do drones, you do stocks, you do radars, you do autonomous cars,’ I would have looked at you like [you’re] crazy."
Currently, the program serves about 175 students from local middle and high schools, with plans to expand further. Assistant Superintendent Michele Conners noted the program’s significance, especially during challenging times for the community, stating, "[The program] shows everyone else what Brockton really is behind the headlines."
Building Community Through Volunteerism
In addition to financial education, nonprofits play a vital role in fostering community spirit. At the recent Wurstfest in New Braunfels, Texas, teams of volunteers from various nonprofits came together to serve German cuisine, showcasing the power of collaboration for a charitable cause.
These volunteers, many of whom have participated for years, emphasized the importance of building lasting bonds while serving their community. Erica Wilson, a local reporter, highlighted how these events not only provide food but also create connections among volunteers and attendees alike.
Conclusion
Nonprofit organizations like Empower Yourself and those involved in community events like Wurstfest are making significant strides in providing educational resources and fostering community engagement. By empowering students and volunteers alike, these organizations are paving the way for a brighter future, one opportunity at a time.
