This article is a guest post from the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions:
Since 2006, the Governor’s Council on Financial Literacy and Capability, in partnership with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI), has organized the Money Smart Wisconsin campaign. This year, Governor Tony Evers proclaimed April 5 – 12, 2025, as Money Smart Wisconsin Week. UW-Madison Division of Extension Educators from across the state offered educational events to help bring this idea to life, providing opportunities for Wisconsin residents to grow their financial knowledge in their communities.
Extension Educators Alicia Utke-Becker in Waupaca County, and Jeanne Walsh in Chippewa County, partnered with their local public libraries to offer family-friendly events with crafts, activities, and information. These events provided fun ways for families to connect to additional resources, including upcoming Extension classes, the Wisconsin 529 College Savings Program, and community resources.
Extension Crawford County’s Amanda Griswold organized events in multiple communities, including workshops for adults on fraud and scam prevention, entrepreneurial readiness, and a FoodWIse session on healthy and budget friendly shopping. Youth learned money tips while crafting a duct tape wallet with the 4-H youth development program.
In Outagamie County, Extension Educator Katie Gellings led several events with local partners. Youth had multiple chances to participate in “Big Read” events with storytimes featuring the 2025 Money Smart Wisconsin Week Book, Deena’s Lucky Penny, and receive Extension’s Money As You Grow reading guides. One of the most memorable events took place at the Timber Rattler Stadium, with children listening to the story read by Timberrattlers mascot, Fang. For residents considering furthering their education, Fox Valley Technical College offered planning for college simulations.
Over 600 individuals enjoyed Extension organized events and learning opportunities as part of Money Smart Wisconsin Week. Other events included those organized by financial institutions, and free children’s museum days sponsored by Edvest 529, Wisconsin’s direct-sold college savings plan, in Baraboo and Black Earth.
While financial education is important year-round, Money Smart Wisconsin Week is a highlight of April, National Financial Literacy Awareness Month, and a chance to offer educational events across the state. Extension Educators focused on financial capabilities were key to making Money Smart Wisconsin Week a success in 2025. The DFI looks forward to continuing the partnership with UW Madison Division of Extension. Anyone interested in receiving updates on future plans for Money Smart Wisconsin Week in 2026 is encouraged to email David Mancl, DFI’s Office of Financial Literacy Director, at David.Mancl@dfi.wisconsin.gov.
