United Way of Brazoria County
Expands its
Financial Stability Partnership
Free Course to Offer Education about Sound Financial Practices
United Way of Brazoria County has expanded its direct
community service programs through the creation of a Financial Stability
Partnership with the objective of helping hard-working families and individuals
learn the basics of household budgeting, increasing their income and setting
aside savings.
Members of the partnership have designed a Financial
Stability Course that will be offered at no charge to participants and will
teach sound financial practices through subjects ranging from banking and credit
basics to consumer rights, and the importance of being informed and
knowledgeable prior to borrowing money. The first course was held on February 28
and will continue each Thursday to April 3. Classes will are held at United Way’s
office at 1212 N. Velasco, Angleton from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
"As individuals and families learn to get more out
of their income, enter the financial mainstream through relationships with
financial institutions, build savings and reduce their debt, they will be better
positioned to make choices about their long-term financial well-being and
quality of life." said Gloria Luna, United Way’s director of community
services
Luna said the Financial Stability Course is an extension
of United Way’s ongoing financial stability programs such as the Home Buyer
Coalition and the organization’s work in offering free tax preparation sites
to individuals qualifying for the Earned Income Tax Credit
(EITC).
Kurt Zetah, a volunteer with the Partnership and a Dow
Chemical Company employee, said, "I have been truly impressed with United
Way’s community service programs and the positive impact they have made
throughout Brazoria County. I believe the addition of the Financial Stability
Course, along with current and future financial stability initiatives, will
increase United Way’s positive influence and create a stronger
community."
According to Luna, members of the Partnership have been
meeting for several months to explore the most effective ways to teach people
about money management. "It’s been a great effort by very knowledgeable
community experts who have given generously of their time to make this possible.
We are working to create lasting changes in people’s lives that will extend
throughout Brazoria County," she said.
For more information about the Financial Stability
Course contact United Way of Brazoria County at (979) 849-9402 or (800)
971-6677.
Six Sessions:
Session 1 Introduction
to banking services and credit
Session 2 Choosing and
maintaining a checking accounts and keep track of money
Session 3 The importance
of saving and consumer rights
Session 4 Establishing
credit
Session 5 Borrowing and
home ownership
Session 6 Overview of
financial stability and other useful tools
