Money Mentors Presents "Funny Money with James Cunningham"

CALGARY, May 9, 2012 /CNW/ - Standup comedian, lecturer and television host James Cunningham will be giving out money and financial advice when he brings his award-winning Funny Money program to Calgary on May 10 as part of Money Mentors' First Annual Youth Financial Literacy Week.

"We're ecstatic to have James Cunningham perform his unique 'Funny Money' program as the main anchor event of Youth Financial Literacy Week," says Tracy Watson, spokesperson with Money Mentors. "James' ability to blend humour and money management is a perfect fit for teenagers and young adults."

In 45 minutes, Funny Money addresses what is a growing problem - young people leaving school unprepared to budget their money, manage their debts or invest for their futures.  The Funny Money mission is simple; take all of the confusion out of the complex world of finances and empower today's youth with the knowledge they need to make good financial choices.

"I'm thrilled that Funny Money was asked to be a part of Alberta's first annual Youth Financial Literacy Week," says Cunningham. "The importance of helping students understand the financial world that is waiting just around the corner for them should not be underestimated. Wise financial decisions impact every aspect of our lives and we don't want today's youth to run the risk of a lifetime of debt through lack of knowledge. The more they learn in their teens, the better prepared they will be when they head off to post-secondary education or directly into the workplace."

James will also be presenting "Funny Money" to high schools throughout Calgary and Southern Alberta during Youth Financial Literacy Week.

The Funny Money program provides unbiased financial information and is sponsored by the Investor Education Fund in partnership with the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC).

Key events during Youth Financial Literacy Week:

• Tuition Contest with Money Mentors and Breakfast Television - With a 500-word essay, students have a chance to win $1000 towards their tuition! Contest open from May 5 - 16.
• The Youth Campaign Design contest on Facebook encourages students to flex their creative muscle for a chane to win $500! Contest runs May 5 - 16.
• Enrich Your Kids - The free session for parents is available in Calgary, Edmonton, Grande Prairie, Lethbridge, Medicine Hat and Red Deer.

For more information on Youth Financial Literacy Week, visit our website:

http://www.moneymentors.ca/financial-literacy-month.html

Media are welcome to attend the shows.

To confirm attendance and to book a media interview:

Wayne Coristine, Community Relations Coordinator, Money Mentors
Phone: [phone] email: [email protected]