Financially Speaking

January 15, 2020: Bridgehampton High School students spent their day out of their classrooms. What they learned about during the full day program opened their eyes to diverse careers, financial aspects of entry-level and experienced

Equity First Foundation (EFF) created this program to provide the Bridgehampton High School students with a “real-world” learning opportunity, focusing on financial education. Students met in small groups with 12 diverse business representatives and were able to learn about their careers and financial investment/outcome of each. They were able to ask questions since each business representative came to his/her career in very different and sometimes unique ways. Presentation hand-outs can be accessed by students through an email upload by the school. Students received pre-assessment and post-assessment forms to determine if their attitudes had changed regarding specific careers and more informed financial choices.

The following companies participated in this worthwhile event:

Music and Entertainment - Tiffany Castillo - Trademark Talent NY

Insurance and Financial - James Grossi - State Farm

Entrepreneur - Marty Greenstein - Event Pros Group

Legal field - Robert Kouffman - Robert Kouffman & Associates, PC

Wealth Management - Ted Dickson - York Bridge Wealth Partners

Leisure - Ashley Clark - J Tortorella Swimming Pools and Maintenance

Real Estate - Robert Canberg - The Robert Canberg Team

Healthcare - Ashley Tague - Mindful Wellness Solutions

Technology - Robert Kratzke - Best Tech

Contractor - Kevin Gironda - Carpenter's Local 290

Mortgage - Jean Dowd - Fairway Independent Mortgage

Automotive - Joe Frizell - Joe's Garage

In the afternoon, the students worked in teams, with fictitious profiles to solve budgeting and financial challenges. They received the advice and assistance of several business “advisors” and had an opportunity to present their solutions to the whole class.

The following participated as advisors:

Banking - Michael Jacobs - Valley National Bank

Financial Planning - Edgar Montenagro -Massachusetts Mutual

Real estate - Ken Hanlon - Exit Realty Island Elite

They also were privileged to hear from a motivational speaker, Wendy Rodriquez, a Latino professional, who overcame multiple personal challenges, and who is now president of the Brentwood Chamber of Commerce, a healthcare advocate for the Brentwood community and Brentwood UFSD. In addition, she founded “Empowering Women TV and Radio” seen on Verizon Fios and heard on 540 AM Radio Adonai, and a non-profit organization Fearless Footsteps. She spoke about defining your own life and believing in yourself.

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EFF provides financial education, literacy and best practices at low or no cost to individuals and groups from primary school through retirement and including life events.

If you would like more information about this topic or to participate in programs/events, please contact: Lisa Strahs-Lorenc at 631-714-4822x110 or lisa@equityfirstfoundation.org.