Smart Money: Learning to Manage Your Finances

Every day hardworking people struggle to make ends meet. In fact, almost 20 million people 50 and older are feeling overwhelmed by mounting debt, poor credit or lack of savings. It doesn’t have to be that way.

AARP Foundation and Charles Schwab Foundation believe that everyone can benefit from smart money habits.  That’s why we’re offering AARP Foundation Finances 50+ in New Orleans

Whether you are trying to meet your everyday needs like rent and food or planning a family vacation, being smart about your money is critical.

“Many people aged 50 and over in our community are struggling to get by financially,” said Gary Ostroske, President and CEO of United Way of Southeast Louisiana. “Many are facing long-term unemployment, or caring for elderly parents, or supporting children and grandchildren who have been cut adrift by joblessness and other circumstances themselves. This program will provide the practical tools and resources needed to help them regain financial control.”

Finances 50+ consists of three educational sessions divided into the following topics: 1) assessing financial standing, budgeting and goal-setting; 2) taking control of credit and debt; and 3) building and protecting assets.

Each 90-minute workshop provides participants with a solid foundation in the topic.  As a series, the workshops are designed to enable participants to holistically assess where they are and create a plan to make immediate and long-term changes for the better.

But what happens in the workshops is just a starting point. Participants are also encouraged to sign up for one-on-one follow-up sessions with a Money Mentor to help them stay on track. The Money Mentor will provide support and motivation over the phone and via email, and will participants create an action plan.

“We know that stabilizing a person’s financial situation and increasing their financial capability can be a prerequisite for success in finding and retaining a job.  This program is about empowering individuals to take control of their finances regardless of their circumstances,” said Jo Ann Jenkins, president of AARP Foundation.

Sign up today!