More than sixty organizations of all sizes and types—including AFSA and the AFSA Education Foundation—joined forces to bring financial literacy to Capitol Hill. This year's fair and exhibition, though, exceeded all expectations, increasing both the number of organizations able to participate and "Senate-side" visitors. Some in attendance estimated the crowds, for instance, at as many as 300 and the event provided a fitting end to financial literacy month in Washington, DC.

The Jump$tart Coalition^® joined with its partners JA Worldwide and the National Council on Economic Education to sponsor the event, held for the second time in the Hart Senate Office Building. Other corporate sponsors for this awareness-building exhibition included Citigroup, HSBC, Nelnet, The McGraw-Hill Companies and Wells Fargo.

In addition, the office of Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-HI) helped coordinate the labyrinth logistics and security arrangements that are part of Congressional life after 9/11. Those staffers worked long and hard to make this event proceed without a hitch.

The purpose of this event was to showcase many of the innovative financial literacy educational products of national organizations before members of Congress and their staffers—as well as the need for these programs. In addition to Congressional members and their staff, though, the general public was also invited to attend this "open house" style event, where exhibitors explained their products, gave away informational literature and handy gadgets, and remained on hand to answer questions for visitors throughout the afternoon.

Several distinguished speakers addressed the crowd, all commenting on the importance of financial education for people of all ages—especially the young. Presenters included:

• Laura Levine, Executive Director, Jump$tart Coalition
• Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-HI)
• Senator Paul Sarbanes (D-MD)
• Representative Judy Biggert (R-IL)
• Representative Rubn Hinojosa (D-TX)

Senator Sarbanes received a plaque in recognition of his many years of service to the financial literacy and the financial services industry in general.