Houston Money Week

Overview

What is HMW About?

Houston Money Week, a citywide initiative with a longstanding commitment to advancing financial literacy for all Houstonians, is embarking on an innovative journey to revolutionize financial education in our community. In a world of ever-changing economies and unprecedented challenges, we aim to empower every individual in the city of Houston with the knowledge, skills, and opportunity needed to thrive financially at no cost.

Our Mission & Vision

At Houston Money Week, we believe that knowledge is power, and financial literacy can be life-changing. Our vision is to create a free digital space, accessible to all, that will serve as a beacon of financial education and opportunity. This space will be a collaborative digital community where partners, industries, and vendors can come together to ensure that Houstonians don’t pay for what they don’t know.

Background Story and Timeline of Houston Money Week

In the early 2000s, the seeds of an ambitious initiative were sown in the heart of Houston. What emerged from those humble beginnings was a powerful coalition known as Houston Money Week, formerly recognized as Money Week Houston. Over the years, this coalition has evolved and grown, advancing its mission of making financial literacy freely available to all Houstonians. Houston Money Week’s journey can be best understood through a timeline of key milestones:
Early 2000s
Houston Money Week, originally known as Money Week Houston, was born as a visionary initiative to promote financial literacy and empower the people of Houston.
Leadership Transition

Under the stewardship of the Federal Reserve Bank, led by the dedicated guidance of Donald Bower, and with Money Management International as its fiscal partner, Houston Money Week secured essential partnerships and funding to realize its mission.

April: National Month for Financial Capabilities

Year after year, the coalition joined hands with various banks, organizations, city entities, educational institutions, and entertainers to make April the national month for financial capabilities. The first week in April became the "kickoff week," but the entire month was dedicated to offering hundreds of free financial events to the community.

Diverse Range of Events

Year after year, Houston Money Week's calendar was packed with activities, including parades, workshops, outdoor outings, essay competitions, university collaborations, youth events, faith-based gatherings in local churches, and specialized events for students at Houston Community Colleges, with all 9 campuses actively participating. 

Challenges and the Global Pandemic

The world was struck by the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted daily life and posed unprecedented challenges. Meetings and gatherings became impossible, but the financial needs of Houstonians continued to grow.

Resilience and Renewal

Despite the challenges, Houston Money Week emerged from this crisis stronger and more resolute than ever. The coalition recognized the crucial role it plays as a united front of non-profit organizations, government agencies, community-based initiatives, supportive financial institutions, and local businesses. 

Leadership Transition and Partnership

Houston Money Week's growth led to a significant milestone when it transitioned to be housed under the direction of The City Controller's Office in partnership with another distinguished financial literacy program, Bank On Houston. This strategic collaboration marked a pivotal moment in our mission to provide financial literacy to all Houstonians.

Summer of 2023

In the summer of 2023, a series of phone calls were made to reignite the flames of our mission. From this outreach, a small yet highly effective leadership team was meticulously crafted, seamlessly blending the wisdom of past contributors, the dedication of our present partners, and the forward-thinking visionaries who will shape our future.

Highlight Of Houston Money Week's Impact On The Community

Over the years, Houston Money Week (HMW) have created several positive financial impacts on the community through its efforts to promote financial education and empowerment. HMW have contributed to enhancing financial literacy levels in the community by providing educational resources and organizing events. As individuals gain a better understanding of financial concepts, they become more equipped to make informed decisions about budgeting, saving, investing, and managing debt. The positive impacts can be outlined in our “Impact Reports”.

A Thank You To Our Partners

We would like to give a special thanks to our current partners.