Building an emergency fund is an important step toward financial stability. It provides peace of mind when unexpected expenses come up and helps create a pathway toward future goals.
For one longtime VyStar member, winning $10,000 through our Smart Spending Giveaway credit card campaign was the perfect opportunity to build that kind of security for his family.
“I’m going to save it, use it as a nest egg,” Jasen C. said. “I’ve got two little girls, so it’s pretty much just trying to make sure I’ve got a little nest egg for emergencies and things like that.”
That mindset is what the Smart Spending Giveaway was created to encourage.
Launched in June 2025, the education-based campaign was designed to help individuals use credit cards responsibly and confidently, especially as more people rely on credit for everyday purchases and seek ways to maximize benefits while avoiding unnecessary debt.
Members received emails with practical tips for managing balances, leveraging credit card features and more. They also had access to VyStar’s digital tools and educational resources to support better money management.
The Smart Spending Giveaway followed the successful VyStar Savings Challenge, during which VyStar helped over 30,000 participants collectively save over $5 million in just 90 days. Together, these initiatives empowered members to make informed financial decisions.
“Credit cards can be powerful tools when used wisely,” said Kris Carrera, VyStar SVP Payments. “Smart Spending Giveaway was designed to give our members practical, easy-to-use strategies that can help them avoid high-interest debt, make confident decisions, and earn rewards along the way.”
Jasen’s first call after finding out he had won the $10,000 was to his father. Then he began to consider how it could benefit the rest of his family.
“I started thinking of how I’m going to spend the money and everything,” he said. “Like, ‘Man, I could really use this.’ I was excited about it.”
Jasen’s story highlights how intentional choices can lead to better financial outcomes. By using his prize money to build an emergency fund for himself and family, he took a meaningful step toward enjoying long-term financial security.
