Knowing where to start is often one of the most difficult parts of money management. Our multiple part 'You and Your Money' workshop series provides basic information on money management practices that are the building blocks to achieving short-term and long-term financial goals. Specific workshop topics include budgeting and spending, banking basics, savings, credit and loans and investing. Child care and meals are provided for participants in order to remove barriers to attendance. Assistance with transportation costs may be available. After completing the money management workshop series, participants have the opportunity to work one-on-one with a trained community mentor to take what they learned during the workshop sessions and apply it to their personal situation. Mentors work with participants on setting and reaching short-term financial goals, as well as setting long-term goals and establishing steps to reach them. Short-term goals typically include budgeting, opening and managing a bank account, saving, and reducing debt. Long-term goals typically include purchasing a new vehicle, owning a home, saving for children's education, and eliminating debt. Mentors serve as a source of information and encouragement as participants work toward their goals.
