LATHAM, N.Y. – The New York State Credit Union Foundation wants to know just who will be the ultimate LifeSmarts teen champion? Recently, as part of its financial literacy initiative, NYSCUF has become the statewide coordinator of LifeSmarts.the Ultimate Consumer Challenge, which helps teens become responsible consumers through a series of fun, educational exercises. "The Foundation's support of this program is synonymous with the goal of credit unions to improve the financial literacy of today's youth," said Frank Kerbein, executive director, NYSCUF. "Our credit unions are pleased to be part of this program as well." Any school can register for the program. After completing a three-week multi-level online testing program, the top nine high school teams advance to the finals, which is set up as a game-show style competition. The Foundation is matching credit unions with each of the nine final New York State teams to help state finalists with transportation and other needed support. This year's final state competition will be held in Albany on March 5th. The state's winning team will then compete in the national competition in Florida at the end of April, to vie for the nationwide LifeSmarts title.