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Make a Difference - Wisconsin, Inc.

Make A Difference – Wisconsin, Inc. is a non-profit organization with a mission to enrich the communuity by empowering students to make sound financial decisions. MAD-WI engages volunteers from the local business and professional community in the delivery of financial education. MAD-WI has developed a 5-hour (6-lesson) financial literacy program that is targeted for 11th and 12th grade students in Milwaukee-area high schools.

Studies show that America's teens graduate from high school without solid financial management skills. The lure of credit card offers and check-cashing stores, combined with a lack of money management education, sets many up for financial crises that can last a lifetime. MAD-WI is working to change that.

MAD-WI volunteers are delivering the program in 65 Milwaukee area high schools this year, including most MPS high schools, several Milwaukee Choice schools, and a few suburban high schools. Volunteers from more than 200 businesses and organizations are involved, but more volunteers are needed.

How can you make a difference?

Volunteer! You are welcome to volunteer on your own or with a partner. Once you sign on as a MAD-WI volunteer, you will be invited to attend a training session to prepare for classroom instruction. The training is stongly recommended, but can also be provided on DVD for those who can't attend a training session. Financial expertise is not required; the lesson plans, curriculum, course materials and training will be provided to all volunteer instructors. The training will include an overview of the financial literacy curriculum PowerPoint presentations and what to expect in the classroom. You will receive all the materials needed to be successful, including a CD with the PowerPoint materials, written instructor notes, and handouts for the students.

The MAD-WI curriculum consists of three seminars that you will deliver over the course of 6 classroom periods. Each period allows for 45 minutes of instruction. Scheduling is flexible. Based on your availability and scheduling preferences, you will be matched to a specific high school classroom (in your own HS if you are a local grad) and MAD-WI will provide you with a presentation schedule or connect you with the classroom teacher to schedule instruction days that are most convenient for you.

How do you sign up?

It's quick and easy to sign up online from the MAD-WI website at www.makeadifferencewisconsin.org.

For more information, visit www.makeadifferencewisconsin.org or contact the MAD-WI staff at 414-273-8101.