Girls Inc. Family STEM Night

WISE has always championed financial education for women at every stage of life. While there may not be elementary school courses on budgeting, investing, or career-building, WISE finds creative ways to introduce these topics early—connecting with young girls and helping lay the foundation for a financially confident future. 

One of our strongest partnerships is with Girls Inc., an organization dedicated to helping girls reach their full potential through resources like college essay mentorship and job interview prep. Together, we’re creating opportunities for girls in elementary and middle school to start thinking about money and decision-making—even during their playground days. 

That mission came to life on April 4, 2025, during the Family STEM Night at Samueli Academy, where WISE hosted its popular “How Much Does It Cost to Own a Pet?” workshop. 

This engaging, kid-friendly workshop has made several appearances at Girls Inc. events over the past year, but this evening felt extra special. With the support of dedicated volunteers—and a crowd that included not just Girls Inc. participants but their families as well—our presence had even more impact. 

Drawing on lessons from past events, this version of the workshop was more refined and interactive than ever. Using hands-on activities like a spinning wheel, plus fun takeaways like keychains and chocolate gold coins, we helped kids break down the real-life costs of caring for a pet. Whether it was their first time hearing about budgeting or they were pulling from memories of a beloved family dog, the energy was high and the learning was real. 

It wasn’t just the girls who were excited to engage. Their siblings and parents were just as eager to join in and learn—proving that financial education is a family affair. It was a meaningful reminder that learning smart money habits can be fun, accessible, and valuable for everyone. 

“How Much Does It Cost to Own a Pet?” has become a standout activity in WISE’s toolkit—and with every new event, its impact grows. As we continue to partner with Girls Inc. and engage future generations, WISE remains committed to meeting women where they are, from Friday night family events to long-term financial planning and beyond.