RALEIGH, N.C. (July 2026) — Boys & Girls Clubs of Wake & Johnston Counties successfully hosted its third annual Stacks & Tracks, presented by First Horizon Bank, bringing together 125 youth and over 90 volunteers for an immersive day of financial literacy and career exploration. The event equipped teens with practical skills to make informed financial decisions while inspiring them to pursue meaningful career pathways.
Stacks & Tracks combines two powerful learning experiences. During the “Stacks” Reality Store simulation, participants were assigned careers, salaries, and family situations before navigating real-life expenses such as housing, transportation, childcare, and savings. The activity challenged youth to balance a monthly budget while making difficult financial decisions, helping them better understand the true cost of adulthood. In the “Tracks” career exploration experience, young people connected directly with professionals representing a variety of industries and learned real tech skills.
Following the experience:
• 98% of participants reported learning how to better balance a budget.
• 95% learned something they can apply in everyday life.
• 94% explored a new career path.
Youth reflections demonstrated the lasting impact of the experience.
"I learned that it's important to invest your money," shared Joshua, who hopes to become a video game designer.
"I learned to use money on things that are needed, not wanted," said Carmen, an aspiring first responder.
Others emphasized the importance of saving money, making smart decisions with credit, and understanding how today's financial decisions affect tomorrow's opportunities.
The success of Stacks & Tracks continues to be driven by the organization's partnership with First Horizon Bank, which has supported the event since its inception. Over the past three years, First Horizon has grown from a dedicated volunteer group into the event's Presenting Sponsor. Each year, approximately 35 employees volunteer their time to lead banking and investing activities, provide one-on-one financial coaching, and share their career journeys with participants. Their hands-on involvement transforms financial concepts into meaningful, real-world learning experiences while helping youth envision successful futures.
“This year’s Stacks and Tracks session underscored what community partnership can achieve,”, said Todd Warrick, Triangle Market President for First Horizon Bank, “Financial literacy turns a first paycheck into a plan; it’s a life skill that compounds over time.”
Other sponsors include Duke Energy, Pulte Homes, and AmeriHealth in partnership with United Way of the Greater Triangle.
As Boys & Girls Clubs of Wake & Johnston Counties continues to expand workforce readiness and financial literacy programming, Stacks & Tracks remains a cornerstone event that empowers youth to dream bigger, plan smarter, and build a strong foundation for lifelong success.
