In this episode of The Prevention Platform, host Ashley Dallas sits down with Vanessa Rivera, Business Development Vice President at Univest Bank, to discuss the power of financial literacy and why it’s essential for young people and their families. With over 20 years of banking experience and leadership roles in the East Penn Chamber and Bank On Coalition, Vanessa brings expert insights on how early financial education can set the stage for long-term stability and success.

From budgeting basics to building credit, we explore practical tips for caregivers and youth, common financial pitfalls to avoid, and how financial empowerment is deeply tied to prevention and well-being. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation that will leave you feeling inspired—and financially smarter.

About Valley Youth House:

Valley Youth House (⁠⁠valleyyouthhouse.org⁠⁠) does more than just provide homes for Pennsylvania’s vulnerable, abused, and homeless youth. We partner with thousands of individuals each year to build a solid foundation for young people and their families. With dedicated street outreach, housing, counseling, skills training, health, prevention, and intervention services, we empower resilient young people in establishing promising futures.

The Youth Education Program is funded in part by the Lehigh County Department of Drug and Alcohol. Their commitment to prevention efforts across Lehigh County allows us to produce this podcast.

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