Money matters for youth

Why this matters to me

I was part of Money Matters for Youth when I was in high school, and the experience has stayed with me. This nonprofit is near and dear to my heart because I know firsthand how meaningful it is for young people to learn about money, investing, entrepreneurship, and the possibilities available to them.

Now, through J Marie Premium Sneakers, I have joined forces with Money Matters for Youth to give back to a program that helped shape my journey. A portion of the proceeds from every Just Denim On Em sneaker sold will benefit Money Matters for Youth and help the organization continue empowering the next generation.

A brick on Detroit Wall Street

J Marie Premium Sneakers earned a brick on Detroit Wall Street—an honor that recognizes our brand as part of Detroit’s Black-business community and its continuing economic legacy. This milestone is especially meaningful because Detroit is where J Marie Premium Sneakers was conceived and where my own journey in entrepreneurship began.

The recognition reflects what this partnership is all about: investing in Black businesses, creating opportunity, and helping the next generation build a strong financial foundation. By supporting Just Denim On Em and Money Matters for Youth, our customers become part of that story.

Read the ClickOnDetroit story about Detroit Wall Street →

About Just Denim On Em

Just Denim On Em is a $220 eco-vintage sneaker made to order and handcrafted in Italy by skilled artisans. Its versatile low-top silhouette is designed to pair easily with many different looks while bringing together premium style, thoughtful craftsmanship, and environmentally conscious materials.

• High-quality denim and eco-technical leather
• Cotton laces and metal eyelets
• Lightweight, recyclable TR sole
• Made-to-order production, helping prevent excess stock and waste
• Available in women’s and men’s sizes

Shop Just Denim On Em and support Money Matters for Youth →

What is Money Matters for Youth?

Money Matters for Youth is a Detroit-based financial literacy program that helps young people ages 8–18 build the knowledge, confidence, and life skills needed for a stronger financial future. The organization calls its students “investors” because it sees every young person as an investment in the future.

Its signature program is a five-day annual camp that introduces youth to the basics of economics, financial responsibility, goal setting, teamwork, professional presentation, diversity, positive relationships, and community involvement.

What young people learn

• Investing: How stocks work and how to begin building an online stock portfolio.
• Budgeting and wealth building: How to analyze expenses, manage money, develop multiple income streams, and practice responsible “wealthcare.”
• Entrepreneurship: How to develop a business idea, start a business, and use professional business etiquette.
• College and career readiness: Scholarship information, saving for college, internships, job assistance, interviewing, and public speaking.
• Community responsibility: Giving back, connecting with community services, and understanding that success can benefit others.
• Practical life skills: Vision boards, thank-you notes, healthy eating, cooking, golf, ballroom dancing, photography, and personal presentation.

What the program has done over the years

Through its recurring financial literacy camps, Money Matters for Youth has provided hands-on learning experiences for young people across metro Detroit. News coverage highlighted by the organization reports that its camps have been designed to reach approximately 200 area youth each year.

Participants have practiced investing and budgeting, created business ideas, strengthened public-speaking and interviewing skills, explored scholarships and career opportunities, and learned how financial success can support their families and communities. The program has also connected students with real-world experiences, including a visit to The Kresge Foundation’s investment office, where they learned directly from financial professionals.

Over time, the organization has built support from corporations, banks, foundations, health organizations, and community partners. Its website also highlights visibility in national and local media, helping expand awareness of the importance of financial education for children and teens.