Introducing SIF’s NEW Mission, Vision, and Purpose Statements
Stocks in the Future is proud to unveil its new mission, vision, and purpose statements. These updates reflect our expanding work and the communities we serve today. Developed through the 2024 strategic planning process, the new language brings clarity to SIF’s evolving role in promoting financial empowerment.
“Our goal was to honor our history while defining where we’re headed,” said Executive Director Rebecca Lange-Thernes. “We’ve always worked to combat racial and gender disparities in financial education, and now we’re making sure our mission speaks to that clearly.”
The revised statements acknowledge how SIF’s reach has grown from classrooms to households and soon to adult learners. With input from educators, board members, and community leaders, the language reflects both precision and purpose.
Mission
We empower students in underserved communities by providing financial education and opportunities to invest in their future, giving everyone a voice in the market.”
Vision
To Create wealth equity where every person has access to financial independence and security.
Purpose
Community members are given tools to build financial security with hands-on experiences showing them the importance of financial education in everyday life. Financial education is necessary because it helps community members make informed decisions which develop financial wellbeing.
Values
Educate, Encourage, Empower
These statements will guide our growth and strengthen our impact. Thank you for being part of what comes next, and special thanks to our Board of Directors and Marketing Committee for their full engagement and thought leadership throughout this process.
Smart Starts: How SIF Students Gain Real Investing Skills
Stocks in the Future (SIF) brings financial literacy to the forefront of middle school education, offering students the chance to apply what they learn through a one-of-a-kind virtual investing experience.
Throughout the year, students earn SIF virtual dollars based on their attendance and grades in math and reading—up to $80 annually. In May and June, students used their earnings to invest in real companies like Ford, Disney, Under Armour, and Verizon, learning to build and diversify portfolios.
Students say the experience makes investing exciting and accessible. “I can’t wait to show my portfolio to my mom,” said Justice from Collington Square. Educators are equally enthusiastic. “I wish I could have SIF in more of my classes,” shared Mr. H from Hamilton Elementary/Middle.
Though the portfolios remain virtual until students turn 18, they can later claim their earned funds and transfer them to real investment accounts with guidance from SIF. The program equips students with financial knowledge, real-world skills, and the confidence to plan for their futures.
I can’t wait to show my portfolio to my mom because she is really excited that we are learning about investing at a young age.
From Classroom to Boardroom: SIF Students Visit PNC Bank
This spring, seventh graders from Hamilton Elementary/Middle School took a memorable field trip to PNC Bank in Downtown Baltimore, where they explored the commercial bank, trading floor, and boardroom.
At the commercial bank, students got a behind-the-scenes look at ATMs, vaults, and customer service, asking insightful questions about banking operations. On the trading floor, they connected classroom lessons to real-time market activity, learning how professionals evaluate stocks and bonds.
The visit concluded in the boardroom with a hands-on activity led by Hannah Shrift, PNC Investment Advisor and SIF Board Member. Students compared Coca Cola and Pepsi and made mock investment decisions based on brand and product insights.
“It was incredibly rewarding to help connect what they’re learning in the classroom to real-world applications,” said Shrift.
Thank you to Hannah, Chris Little, Frank McNeil, and the entire PNC team for making this engaging and inspiring visit possible.
Thank you for making 2024 a Success!
Stocks in the Future is grateful for the incredible support that made 2024 a year of growth and impact. Thanks to our donors, partners, and community, we’ve expanded financial literacy education, reached more students, and strengthened our programs. As we move into 2025, we’re excited to build on this momentum and continue empowering the next generation with the knowledge and skills to invest in their futures. Thank you for being part of this journey!
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443-955-2254
PO Box 19124
Towson, MD 21284
Rebecca Thernes
rebecca.thernes@sifinvest.org
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