By Charla Montgomery
Did you know that each year an entire month is dedicated to financial literacy?
On March 9, 2004, Senate Resolution 316 was passed designating April 2004 as “Financial Literacy Month.” Senator Daniel Akaka [HI] sponsored the bill, which resolved to raise public awareness about the importance of financial education in the United States and the serious consequences associated with a lack of understanding about personal finances.
Over OCCUR’s 65-year history, we have presented many financial literacy programs. We understand how difficult it can be to manage money, particularly for modest incomes, and want to make sure our communities have the information needed to help maintain and/or enhance their financial well-being. This has become even more necessary now as we continue to face so many unexpected challenges in our lives.
Starting April 5, 2022, OCCUR will present the Second Annual Virtual Financial Management Training Series, sponsored by Union Bank and instructed by Jasper Smith, financial management expert, educator and author of “The #BuildWealthChallenge.”
In this virtual workshop series Smith will discuss six key topics: Money Mindset, Money Management, Credit Building/Maintaining, Life Insurance, Investments and Retirement. The twice weekly series, on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30-7:30 p.m., ends on April 21, 2022.
As an added bonus, OCCUR will offer the first 20 individuals who register and attend all six workshop topics a free copy of Smith’s book, “The #Build Wealth Challenge.”
For more information and to register, please visit our Technical Assistance page at www.occurnow.org or email info@occurnow.org.
Statistically, low-income individuals and/or households typically spend most of their time just trying to make ends meet and find it difficult to see their financial futures. It’s important to remember that whether someone is making the big bucks or just getting by, knowledge is still the most powerful tool needed to make change.
It’s true, trying to navigate through the many economic fluxes we experience, while taking care of our families, sustaining an income, juggling credit issues and thinking ahead can feel overwhelming to say the least!
However, knowing your options can really make a difference in helping you build and achieve financial stability and help you walk the wealth building path.
Let’s consider the term “wealth building” for a moment.
Many folks say that “wealth building” only applies to those who already earn a high income.
The term “Wealth” can mean different things to different people. Generally speaking, it means to have “plenty.” Acquiring and maintaining “plenty” can be done, but if you’re not a Lotto winner, it typically takes patience, perseverance and self-discipline — things that you will learn in our workshop.
We look forward to seeing you there.
Charla Montgomery is the Operations and Programs consultant for OCCUR.