Compass Communications

Financial Literacy as a Lifelong Habit

Story and photo by Rikiyah Pryor

April is Financial Literacy Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of understanding how money works. At Citizens Bank, we believe financial literacy isn’t just a skill — it’s a lifestyle choice that should start early and evolve throughout life.

Starting young: the foundation of financial wellness

Imagine if we all had the opportunity to learn about money management from childhood. Instead of struggling with budgets, credit scores, and loan applications as adults, we’d already have a foundation in place. That’s why Citizens Bank encourages parents to introduce financial conversations to their children at an early age.

For Trevor Ridner, branch manager and loan officer of the Somerset branch, financial literacy isn’t just part of his career — it’s a value he shares with his daughter, Hadley Tate. “I want Hadley to grow up understanding the importance of saving, smart spending, and giving,” Trevor shares. “We talk about money in a way that makes sense for her age. If she gets birthday money, we set aside some for saving, some for spending, and some for giving. She gets excited about watching her savings grow.”

Trevor and his wife, Shandi, are a young and growing family who understand firsthand the importance of financial literacy. Trevor’s family played a crucial role in teaching him how to manage money, a lesson they now pass on to Hadley. More than just budgeting and saving, they emphasize generosity, teaching Hadley the value of giving back. Whether it’s donating to community organizations like Young Professionals of Lake Cumberland or local high school athletics, they instill in her the belief that financial wellness includes sharing blessings with others.

“I was lucky enough to grow up in a family that understood the value of hard work and financial responsibility,” Trevor says. “My parents taught me that every dollar has a purpose — whether it’s for saving, spending, or giving. That’s something I want Hadley to understand, too.”

Trevor’s experience echoes the need for families to have these simple but impactful conversations. Financial literacy isn’t just about numbers; it’s about making informed decisions that shape the future.

A community bank that cares

At Citizens Bank, we recognize that financial literacy isn’t something everyone has had the chance to learn. Life is complicated, and financial setbacks happen. That’s why we take the time to sit down with our customers, without judgment, to provide the tools and guidance they need to make smart financial choices.

“We never want anyone to feel ashamed about not knowing something when it comes to finances,” Trevor explains. “That’s what we’re here for—to guide, educate, and support our customers no matter where they are in their financial journey.”

Citizens Bank was founded on the principle of being more than just a financial institution—we are a part of the community. Since our establishment, we’ve worked to build trust and relationships with our customers, ensuring that financial education is accessible to all. Whether it’s a teenager opening their first savings account, a young couple looking to buy their first home, or a retiree planning their next chapter, we believe financial knowledge is power.

Making financial education Accessible

Many people think financial literacy is complicated, but it doesn’t have to be. Citizens Bank offers resources such as financial workshops, one-on-one consultations, and online tools that simplify budgeting, saving, and investing.

Trevor has seen firsthand how a little education can make a big difference. “I’ve had customers come in overwhelmed, unsure of where to start. But after just one conversation, they leave feeling hopeful. We help people take control of their finances, step by step.”

“We’re not just here to open accounts and approve loans,” Trevor adds. “We want our customers to feel confident in their financial decisions. That means giving them the tools and knowledge to succeed, not just in the short term, but for life.”

As part of our commitment to financial literacy, we encourage parents, teachers, and mentors to make financial education a priority. Schools are incorporating more personal finance into curriculums, but learning at home is just as important. Simple habits—like allowing children to budget their allowance or discussing the value of money at the grocery store—can create a strong foundation for future financial success.

Building a stronger community through financial literacy

Financial education doesn’t just help individuals—it strengthens entire communities. When people feel confident about their financial decisions, they are more likely to invest in their futures, support local businesses, and give back.

As a community bank, we see ourselves as partners in this journey. Our goal is to provide resources that make financial literacy easy to understand and apply, no matter where you are in life.

“When people understand how to manage their finances, they make better choices for their families; that’s what I am trying  to do for Hadley.”

Looking forward

As we celebrate Financial Literacy Month this April, we invite you to take a step toward financial wellness, whether it’s opening a savings account for your child, attending a financial workshop, or simply having an open conversation about money. Every small step counts.

At Citizens Bank, we’re here to guide you on this journey — not as just another bank but as a trusted neighbor who genuinely cares. Because when we invest in knowledge, we invest in brighter futures for generations to come.

For more information about financial literacy resources and how we can help, visit your local Citizens Bank branch today. We are a member of the FDIC and an Equal Housing Lender.