LA HABRA, Calif. – To help teens build their financial resume, American First Credit Union (AFCU) has developed a program specifically for Santa Ana's Cesar Chavez High School students. "Our goal is to give students valuable financial skills they can use throughout their lives," said American First President/CEO Bob Street. "The credit union is proud to help students make informed financial decisions and gain financial independence." As part of the program, AFCU Education Coordinator/Classroom Instructor Michelle Lawrence leads interactive class discussions where students share stories about how they take their paychecks from their part-time jobs to check cashing centers and pay exorbitant fees to get their money. Others tell tales of banks holding their paychecks for 10-14 days- time they don't have when they need to help their families make the rent payment. During these discussions Lawrence lets students know there are other options available. Each lunchtime program is designed to give students the tools they will need to become financially responsible adults. Approximately 20 students are currently enrolled in the program and are receiving school credits for their voluntary participation during their lunch period.