Baltimore, MD – Associated Black Charities (ABC) is proud to announce the return of its Teen Financial Literacy Summit, expanding both its reach and impact in 2026. The summit will take place on Saturday, April 11, 2026, from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM at SECU Arena at Towson University, bringing together hundreds of young people for a powerful day of financial education, exposure, and opportunity.
Building on the momentum of previous years, ABC is doubling participation, positioning this gathering as one of the region’s largest and most intentional financial literacy experiences for teens. Open to youth ages 12–18, accompanied by an adult, the free, one-day summit will welcome participants from across Maryland, Washington, D.C., Virginia, and Delaware.
The summit is designed to be both engaging and transformational, featuring dynamic, TED Talk–style sessions led by industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals who will break down complex financial concepts into real, relatable, and actionable insights. Throughout the day, young people will explore pathways to entrepreneurship and generational wealth, gain a deeper understanding of investing and long-term financial growth, build practical skills in resume development and interviewing, and engage in conversations about real-world money management and financial decision-making.
Beyond the main stage experience, attendees will step into a vibrant marketplace filled with community organizations, financial institutions, and Black-owned businesses offering resources, tools, and opportunities that extend learning beyond the day itself. The summit experience is intentionally designed to create connection, spark curiosity, and provide direct access to mentors and professionals who can help shape each participant’s journey. Throughout the day, participants will also enjoy interactive engagement opportunities and complimentary meals, ensuring an environment that is both welcoming and enriching.
A defining feature returning to this year’s summit is the extraordinary partnership of presenting sponsor SECU, whose commitment to financial empowerment will translate into immediate impact for participating youth. Through this partnership, SECU will open accounts for attendees and provide $100 starter deposits, offering young people a tangible first step into the financial system and reinforcing the importance of saving, ownership, and long-term wealth-building.
ABC extends deep gratitude to SECU and to its valued sponsors, including T. Rowe Price, The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company, MCB Real Estate, The Afro-American Newspapers, The Arc Baltimore, Shelter Foundation, and International Union of Painters and Allied Trades, whose collective investment makes this level of access and opportunity possible.
“This summit is about more than financial literacy. It is about access, exposure, and changing the trajectory of what young people believe is possible for their lives,” said Chrissy M. Thornton, President and CEO of Associated Black Charities. “When we equip our youth with knowledge and pair it with real resources, like opening accounts and providing seed capital, we are not just teaching financial concepts. We are activating economic mobility in real time.”
The Teen Financial Literacy Summit is a signature initiative of ABC’s commitment to advancing economic equity and building pathways to generational wealth for Black communities. By combining education with real access to financial tools and networks, ABC continues to create spaces where young people are not only informed, but empowered to act.
Registration is required, and space is limited given the expanded capacity. Families, schools, and organizations are encouraged to register now.
To register by April 8, 2026, learn more about sponsorship opportunities, or explore ways to partner, please visit:
https://bit.ly/teenfinancialliteracysummit2026
About Associated Black CharitiesFounded in 1985, Associated Black Charities (ABC) is an economic empowerment and racial equity organization that works as an educator, advocate, supporter, and convener to eliminate barriers created by structural racism. ABC advances long-term solutions that create new opportunities for Black communities to thrive. Learn more at: www.associatedblackcharities.org