Investing in Future Financial Wellness: Bank Sponsors Teen Video Contest

NEW YORK, NY – October 30, 2025 – Burke & Herbert Bank & Trust Company is once again sponsoring its highly anticipated ‘Lights, Camera, Save!’ video contest, encouraging teens aged 13-18 to flex their creativity while building essential financial literacy skills. With over $20,000 in prizes up for grabs, the initiative represents a growing industry trend of banks investing in the financial wellbeing of future consumers.

Beyond Traditional Banking: A Commitment to Community

For Burke & Herbert, a financial institution with roots stretching back to 1852, the contest is more than just a promotional activity; it's a cornerstone of their community engagement strategy. “We see financial literacy as a vital life skill,” explains a bank spokesperson. “It’s about empowering young people to make informed decisions and build a secure financial future.” The bank’s commitment extends beyond the annual contest, encompassing programs where bank employees directly visit schools to teach financial concepts. This direct engagement aligns with a broader philosophy of building lasting relationships within the communities it serves – spanning Delaware, Kentucky, Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia.

The ‘Lights, Camera, Save!’ contest offers a unique approach by leveraging the power of video creation. Participants are tasked with producing short videos that explain financial concepts in a compelling and accessible manner. This peer-to-peer learning model, where teens are both educators and students, is proving increasingly effective. The competition's format encourages them to not only understand the material but also to communicate it clearly and creatively. The first-place winner receives $10,000, with $5,000 and $2,500 awarded for second and third place nationally. Regional winners also receive prizes, as do the teachers who guide them.

A National Trend: Banks Step Up to Address the Financial Literacy Gap

Burke & Herbert isn’t alone in its commitment to youth financial literacy. A growing number of banks and financial institutions are recognizing the urgent need to equip young people with the skills to navigate an increasingly complex financial landscape. PNC Bank's interactive online curriculum, for example, utilizes gamification to make learning about budgeting and investing more engaging. Similarly, M&T Bank offers resources and programs designed to teach teens about responsible banking and credit management.

This surge in financial education initiatives is driven by a concerning lack of financial literacy among young adults. Studies reveal that many teens lack basic knowledge of essential concepts like credit scores, interest rates, and the importance of saving. This knowledge gap can lead to poor financial decisions, debt accumulation, and limited opportunities for wealth building. The American Bankers Association has embraced this need, amplifying the prize money available through 'Lights, Camera, Save!' and supporting regional contests nationwide.

“There’s a real fear among young people about their financial future,” says a financial literacy expert. “They see the debt burdens of their parents and the economic uncertainties of the world, and they want to be better prepared.” The expert emphasizes the importance of starting financial education early, during high school, when teens are beginning to make independent financial decisions.

Video as a Powerful Learning Tool

The choice of video as the medium for the 'Lights, Camera, Save!' contest isn’t accidental. Research suggests that visual learning is particularly effective for engaging young people. Video allows for dynamic storytelling, relatable examples, and creative expression. The contest format fosters a “teach-the-teacher” environment, empowering teens to solidify their understanding by explaining concepts to their peers.

Burke & Herbert Bank has seen increasing participation and success stories from local schools. Last year, a student from Winchester, Kentucky, secured first place nationally, further demonstrating the program’s impact. The contest not only rewards financial knowledge but also encourages creativity, communication skills, and teamwork. Regional winners from Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, Kentucky, and West Virginia advance to the national competition, judged by the American Bankers Association on Instagram, creating an additional layer of engagement and visibility. The bank believes this initiative is a powerful way to build a more financially responsible future generation and strengthen its ties to the communities it serves.