Houston Money Week

Legacy Partners

Honoring Legacy Partners

Throughout its journey, Houston Money Week has had the privilege of working with over 160 city-wide organizations that played an instrumental role in establishing the organization’s roots. These cherished individuals and organizations are affectionately referred to as “Legacy Partners.”

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.

The Story of Our Mascot

The story of Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, is one of remarkable achievement, innovation, and unwavering commitment to the principles of financial literacy. Benjamin Franklin was not only a statesman and inventor but also a strong advocate for responsible financial management. His life story and values align closely with the mission of Houston Money Week, which seeks to make financial literacy accessible to all Houstonians. Benjamin Franklin is celebrated for his wise sayings, such as “A penny saved is a penny earned” and “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” He was a self-made man who started as an apprentice and became a successful printer, author, scientist, and diplomat. He believed in the power of education and the responsible handling of money to improve one’s life and contribute to the well-being of society.

Houston Money Week continues to reference Benjamin Franklin as their brand ambassador because his life exemplifies the very essence of what they aim to achieve. His commitment to self-improvement, financial responsibility, and lifelong learning is an inspiration to individuals seeking to enhance their financial literacy and navigate the ever changing financial landscape. By embracing Benjamin Franklin as their brand ambassador, Houston Money Week pays homage to his legacy and promotes the values he stood for, reinforcing the importance of financial education and responsible financial management as a means to achieve personal and societal success. Benjamin Franklin’s story serves as a constant reminder of the enduring relevance of these principles and the significance of making financial literacy accessible to all.

Community Wide Initiative

Through the collaboration and coordinated effort of organizations across Houston and surrounding areas – including businesses, financial institutions, schools, libraries, nonprofits, government agencies and the media – individuals of all ages will have access to financial resources and ongoing opportunities. Community-wide initiatives like those organized by Houston Money Week are crucial for fostering financial literacy, as they address the diverse needs of the community and promote a culture of financial well-being.