Dollars & $ense: A Community-Based Financial Program in Limestone County

A community-wide coalition saw the need for financial management education in Limestone County. A group consisting of nine agencies met on a regular basis in 2008 to establish a long-term financial management program. Agencies involved included the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, Alabama Department of Human Resources, Alabama Department of Public health, Athens-Limestone County Family Resource Center; Athens State University, Calhoun Community College, Habitat for Humanity Athens/Limestone County, Limestone County Council on Again and United Way of Athens

After extensive needs assessments, a long-term program called Financial $ense was developed. The class was designed to target working low-income families. Participating agencies and some larger local employers identified potential families to participate in the program. The program was designed to last 10 months, with 18 sessions. Sessions were planned for the second and fourth Tuesdays from 5 p.m to 6:30 p.m. Athens State University provided a classroom.

To make a program of this magnitude successful, the clients needed to have logistical support. The cost of child care and an evening meal was seen as a reason that some families might not be able to attend, so free child care was provided through the Limestone County Family Resource Center and various United Way supporters funded meals for both the children and families at all sessions.

Invitations were sent to selected families in Limestone County for a program orientation., Those interested were asked to complete an application, which included an interview and financial profile.

Classes began in August. Nine families started the program and three more joined at the second session.

Broman designed a curriculum especially for the program and its targeted clientele. Session topics included the following:

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