Students help to illustrate the art of personal finance

She appreciates the ability to convey herself without words and for people to see her talent.

The same is true for Cherrish Johnson and Isabella Aviles.

“I like that you can express yourself in different ways,” said Johnson, who attends Mitchell K-8 School.

They are three of the 12 students whose artwork is featured in the 2025 City of Racine Financial Empowerment Center calendar.

Students were recognized Monday for their artwork that illustrates aspects of financial wellbeing.

The calendar art contest started in April, which is Financial Literacy Month, and lasted through the summer.

Students in kindergarten through eighth grade who live in Racine could submit entries.

It is the first time the Financial Empowerment Center has released calendars, which are sponsored by Landmark Credit Union and are available for free at the Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St.

The FEC, a free service provided by the city and local nonprofit Housing Resources Inc., opened in December 2020.

It offers individual counseling to help adults and families manage their finances, pay down debt, increase savings, and establish and build credit.

“We’re here to help educate you all to make the best decisions for yourselves,” said Curtis Szymczak, FEC program manager.

Dina Knibbs, FEC director, said the students whose work is featured in the calendar should be “very proud” of themselves.

Johnson was proud when she learned her art, which she created after talking with a teacher about what to draw, would be included.

So was Aviles, who attends Julian Thomas Elementary and whose creation features a piggy bank.

Aviles said she appreciates being included in the calendar because it is “a great opportunity to show my work.”

Toscano Martinez’s work shows a person at a bank who is excited about buying a house. Her mother helped her with the idea.

Toscano Martinez, who attends Our Lady of Grace Academy, is excited to have her work more widely available.

“I finally get to show the public what my art is,” Toscano Martinez said.

As a result, the public could be more informed about healthy financial management practices.