Big Bank Theory

The Chamber’s Big Bank Theory program is designed to help build the financial literacy skills of high school students in Manatee County. Students are engaged in a hands-on, real-life financial simulation that introduces them to the realities of being a financially responsible adult.  It’s sort of like playing the “Game of Life,” during which the students have to balance a monthly budget by making smart decisions about their finances and expenses.

As a volunteer, you will help students as they visit various stations representing typical expenses young adults need to navigate – like housing, transportation, food, clothing, and more. Students will make spending decisions while working to stay within their monthly budget.

Volunteering is easy. You can view an online training video to learn more about the program, its goals, how the budget stations work, and what you, as a volunteer, will do during your shift. We truly could not put this program on without you!

Ready to volunteer? Click the appropriate school/date below, then choose the time frame for which you’re available. Two shifts are available for most days of the Big Bank Theory: a morning shift and an early afternoon shift. You can also sign up for an all-day shift (yay!) with lunch provided by our generous sponsors. There’s no need to limit yourself to one day, either. Register for as many schools and shifts as you want!

• November 3 & 4, 2025 | Bayshore High – completed
• November 13 & 14, 2025 | Manatee High – completed
• November 18 & 19, 2025 | Southeast High – completed
• December 1 & 2, 2025 | Palmetto High – completed
• December 9 & 10 | Braden River High – completed
• January 15 & 16, 2026 | Parrish Community High – completed
• January 22 | Team Success – completed
• January 29 & 30, 2026 | Lakewood Ranch High – completed
• February 5, 2026 | Manatee School for the Arts – completed
• February 20, 2026 | Bradenton Christian School – completed
• February 25, 2026 | Lakewood Ranch Preparatory Academy – completed

Click here to hear from a previous Big Bank Theory student about his thoughts on the program. We look forward to another great year teaching financial literacy to high school seniors!

Presenting Sponsor: