Transamerica and the Zach Johnson Foundation’s Kids on Course program have teamed up to launch a new financial literacy initiative designed to give middle school students foundational financial literacy skills.
The “Saving for a Rainy Day” contest, introduced in mid-June during the Kids on Course Scholar Camp in Cedar Rapids, encouraged students to reflect on the importance of saving and planning for life’s unexpected moments.
More than 100 students attending the camp received an interactive, age-appropriate curriculum centered on smart saving habits. After completing the lessons, participants were invited to share what “saving for a rainy day” means to them. A panel of judges selected five standout entries, and each winner received $1,000 from Transamerica to begin building their own rainy-day fund.
“The ‘Saving for a Rainy Day’ contest underscores Transamerica’s commitment to financial literacy,” said Laura Wirth, head of corporate development at Transamerica. “Smart savings habits are one of the most important life skills we can give our children – and middle school is a great time to start providing lessons. These students are gaining independence and making choices that will shape their adult lives, including how they view and handle money.”
The Zach Johnson Foundation, founded by professional golfer and Cedar Rapids native Zach Johnson, supports students through tutoring, enrichment programs, and family engagement efforts aimed at preparing them for post-secondary education.
“Financial education helps level the playing field,” Mr. Johnson said. “It equips all students – regardless of background – with the knowledge and confidence to make smart financial decisions and help build a more secure future. This is why it is core to our Kids on Course curriculum.”
Mr. Johnson said the contest brought financial lessons to life. “Transamerica’s ‘Saving for a Rainy Day’ contest was a fun and interactive way to teach the students the power of putting money aside and the importance of saving for the ‘what ifs’ in life.”
The initiative combined financial education with creative expression, giving students the chance to define saving in their own words. Organizers say this approach not only deepened students’ understanding of financial concepts but also helped instill a sense of personal ownership.
Transamerica, one of Cedar Rapids’ largest employers with more than 1,800 local workers, has partnered with Mr. Johnson since his PGA Tour debut in 2004.
“Transamerica believes that everyone – from employees and their families to the broader community, including students supported by the Zach Johnson Foundation – deserves the opportunity to thrive,” Ms. Wirth said. “When kids learn to save, budget, and set goals early, they’re already on the path toward financial freedom and a future where they can truly live their best lives.”
