There have been many milestones in the rich history of Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union and its Foundation. The most recent being the announcement on April 23, 2013 of an exclusive partnership with Berenstain Enterprises, Inc. The Berenstain Bears series of children’s books features a family of bears learning a life lesson in each story.

“FMFCU and our Foundation have educated children for over a decade on the importance of making smart financial decisions,” said former President and CEO John Unangst. “This unique partnership led to the development of The Berenstain Bears Financial Literacy Program.”

As part of the experience, kindergarten through third-grade students receive a visit at their school from an FMFCU Foundation educator. The visit includes a reading of The Berenstain Bears’ Trouble with Money.  Children are taught the concepts of Save, Spend, and Share for an impactful learning experience.

“The Berenstain Bears have entertained and educated children worldwide,” Mike Berenstain, author and illustrator of The Berenstain Bears series commented. “Teaming up with FMFCU to better educate young children about financial literacy gives our family of friendly bears an exciting new way to help kids learn, grow, and thrive.”

Since debuting in 1962, The Berenstain Bears book series has grown to over 300 titles, selling 300 million copies in 23 languages. The Berenstain Bears franchise has also expanded beyond books, encompassing two television series and a variety of other products and licenses.

Building upon this new partnership and Financial Literacy Center, FMFCU now offers The Berenstain Bears Cub Account.  This account is for children up to age 10 and comes with a free piggy bank, The Berenstain Bears Trouble With Money book, membership card, and two opportunities to have the Credit Union match a deposit.

“The Cub Account is an ideal tool for parents to begin teaching their sons and daughters the art of saving,” said Rick Durante, Vice President of Education.  “FMFCU created a fun account for kids that also gets them in the habit of saving.”

Re-published from Choices® Magazine 2013 Special Edition. Modified to reflect accuracy April 2022.

The Berenstain Bears® Copyright, Berenstain Enterprises, Inc. 2015.