Check out our wealth of online financial literacy knowledge.
FinLit Center
You have financial goals, questions and ideas? We have answers and easy-to-understand help at the ready. Check out our wealth of online financial literacy knowledge.
Higher Education Scholarships
Gather is a big believer in the pursuit of higher education. Plus, we believe in Kaua‘i and all of our fellow members and neighbors. That’s why we’re proud to offer $1,000 scholarships to ten graduating high school seniors every year. To be eligible, you must be a graduating high school senior who is accepted and planning to enroll full-time in any two or four-year institution of higher learning. Recipients must be enrolled as full time students, be members in good standing of the credit union and be willing to participate in marketing materials. The scholarship is paid directly to the school of the student's choice for educational expenses such as tuition, books, fees, supplies, and room and board.
Call Terri Kaniho at (808) 245-6791, ext. 227 or click our scholarship application (PDF)
Financial Literacy Seminars
It’s never too early (or too late) to start good financial habits. That’s why Gather offers free financial education sessions for both students and adults. It’s always a good idea to learn about better ways to manage your money.
Smart Saving
Students will learn the difference between a savings account and a piggy bank. Discussion topics include what dividends are and how they work, how to use an ATM card responsibly, and the difference between a savings account and a checking account.
We’ll discuss the benefits of saving strategy by determining how long it will take them to become a millionaire. Finally, we’ll show what it takes to be a smart saver and teach tips for making the most of an allowance.
Budgeting Basics
This interactive session teaches the importance of budgeting. Students will learn how to create a simple budget, how to save for a small purchase and accomplish long-term goals. In addition, we’ll look at examples of how small purchases everyday can add up and ways to avoid bad-spending habits.
Cost of Cool
We’ll teach the importance of differentiating between wants and needs. We’ll look at the costs of items and discuss alternatives. We’ll look at the power of advertising and how to look beyond it to become a savvy shopper. We’ll offer students tips for looking cool for less, buying games with their own money and how to prepare for high school, college and beyond.
Check It Out
Students will learn about the responsibilities and benefits that come with having a checking account. We’ll discuss how to properly write and endorse checks, as well as how to record transactions and balance a checkbook. Topics also include the Visa Check Card, travelers checks and official checks.
Give Me Some Credit
We’ll discuss the basics of credit cards, including understandable interpretations of all the fine print. We’ll teach about the dangers associated with credit cards and tips to avoid common mistakes. In addition, students will learn the difference between various types of cards and what to look for when comparing credit card options. We will review why it’s important to establish good credit, define what a credit score is and offer tips on how to keep your credit in good standing. This session is a must for students heading off to college or entering the workforce.
Your Choice Money Management
In this session, students will learn how to create their own budget. We’ll provide tips on how to manage a budget successfully and more importantly, how to stay within a budget. We’ll cover how to save for the future and discuss why budgeting is essential for achieving financial goals. This session offers the foundation for financial independence and success.
Get Connected
We’ll introduce all the components of convenience banking. We’ll teach how to use an ATM to its full capacity, the advantages of using online banking (Home Banking- ebranch) and online bill payment services (Bill Payer), how to use the automated phone system (Member Access line) and the advantages of direct deposit.
Your First Home
A must for first-time homebuyers or for those who want to learn more about purchasing a home. We'll provide all the tips and tools to help you work toward purchasing your dream home. We’ll explain the entire process of home buying and prepare you for working with realtors, inspectors and lawyers.
Auto Buying Tips
Whether you’re buying a new or used, from a dealer or an individual, we can help. Before purchasing your next car, be sure you know how to get the best deal possible. We’ll offer insights into automotive terminology, warranties and financing options. We’ll prepare you to walk into a dealership with confidence and walk out with a great deal. In addition, we'll provide tips for buying used cars and what your options are when buying from an individual.
Expect the Unexpected
This session includes topics that are typically at the end of your priority list. However, they are some of the most important issues you will face in your financial life. Let us help you prepare. We’ll discuss the importance of wills and why they aren't just for the elderly. In addition, we will touch on Auto & Homeowners Insurance, Long-Term Care Insurance, Cancer Insurance, and LegalShield. Finally, we’ll talk about the growing threat of identity theft and offer suggestions on how you can protect yourself.
ABCs of Investing
Have you thought about investing but don't know where to start? Are you unsure about the advantages and disadvantages? This session teaches you all the basics about investing and why people invest. Gather’s Financial Advisor will explain the risks associated with investing and describe some basic investment options (like mutual funds, annuities and IRAs). We’ll provide you with a general understanding of investing so you can make an educated decision on which options best suit your needs. In addition, you can meet our Financial Advisor and set up an appointment to discuss your personal options in more detail.
Managing Debt
Are you living from paycheck to paycheck? Are you having trouble making ends meet and continuing to fall deeper into debt? We’ll provide the real-life scenarios and advice on how to manage your debt more efficiently. We’ll provide tips and tools for creating your own budget, saving more and developing a plan to achieve your financial goals.
In-School Student Branches
- For more information on Warrior Credit Union
- For more information on Raider Credit Union
- For more information on Menehune Credit Union
BankBus Programs
The BankBus is a mobile financial education program that helps young students learn about the basics of banking and money management.
- Read information about our BankBus programs
