Save Like Maggie Walker

Primis Revives a Timeless Lesson in Financial Empowerment

More than a century ago, Maggie L. Walker—the trailblazing businesswoman and the first Black woman in the United States to charter a bank—believed that financial confidence begins with even the smallest act of saving. At the St. Luke Penny Savings Bank in Richmond, she gave children their own penny banks and taught them how setting aside just a little at a time could build security, independence and opportunity. Her message is as meaningful today as it was in 1903. 

Primis is proud to carry her legacy forward. 

This year, Primis teammates brought Walker’s timeless lesson to Heavenly Playhouse Childcare Center in Henrico County, Virginia, hosting a fun and engaging financial literacy event designed especially for young learners. Primis representatives Amanda Gravely, director of in-market banking, along with market center managers Becky Ring and Kristine Allen, led students through interactive activities focused on two foundational concepts: the difference between needs and wants, and the importance of saving. 

Students participated in a lively grab‑bag game, pulling out everyday items and deciding whether each one was a need or a want—a simple exercise that sparked thoughtful conversations and lots of smiles. To build on the lesson, the group read a children’s book about saving money and talked about what the kids hoped to save for in their own lives. 

Every child received a piggy bank to decorate, transforming the lesson into a hands-on creativity session. As they personalized their banks, the Primis team shared the story of Maggie L. Walker and why teaching children to save has remained such a powerful tradition for more than 100 years. 

After decorating, Primis judges selected three standout designs. The first-place winner received $100, second place received $50 and third place received $25.And to help each child begin a habit that could last a lifetime, Primis sent every child home with a crisp $5 bill to start their savings journey. 

In recognition of the partnership and Heavenly Playhouse’s commitment to local families, Primis also presented the childcare center with a $1,000 gift. 

“Getting out into the communities we serve isn’t just part of our work—it’s something we’re truly proud to do,” Gravely said. “Maggie Walker showed us that financial empowerment can start small. That lesson still holds so much value today, and we’re honored to help children build confidence and smart saving habits early in life.” 

For Primis, supporting young learners isn’t just a moment; it’s a continuation of a legacy rooted in access, empowerment and community. A simple piggy bank may not seem like much, but for many children, it’s the first step toward understanding their own financial future. 

To learn more about Primis community initiatives, visit primisbank.com/community.