NORWICH – In observing America Saves Week which takes place from Feb. 27 – Mar. 4, NBT Bank is reaching out to customers and local schools to encourage them to sign the America Saves Pledge: a pledge that aims to improve saving habits and financial futures for participants around the area.

The America Saves Pledge is a follow-up to NBT Bank's Strive® Financial Literacy Program, which has helped kids, teens, and young adults establish a positive relationship with money and responsible financial habits through financial education presentations across the six states where the bank is located.

“Signing this pledge is a natural extension of our Strive Financial Literacy Program,” said NBT Bank Executive Vice President of Operations and Retail Banking Joe Stagliano. “It encourages young people in our community to make a commitment to save, reduce debt, and begin investing in their financial future.”

According to a release from NBT Bank, the pledge is targeted for students ages 14 and older, and encourages participants to set a specific savings goal and stick to it. They offer the following rules-of-thumb to aid in savings: