Volume 15, Issue 2                                                                                                                                   December, 2013 

                        
Meaning Over Money: A Lesson from the Grinch
Devon Hyde
Manager of Development, CCCS of Maryland and Delaware
 

First published in 1957, Dr. Seuss's story of "The Grinch Who Stole Christmas" teaches a financial lesson that rings true today. It depicts the escalatingcommercialism of Christmas and reveals the true meaning of the holiday. If you're not familiar with the story of the Grinch, he's a grumpy character that dislikes Christmas. He dresses like Santa and steals all of the food, decorations, and gifts from the neighboring town of Whoville. To his surprise, despite the theft he isn't able to steal their holiday spirit; the people of Whoville sing and rejoice in the holiday anyway. In the end, the Grinch returns the gifts and is welcomed by the town. View full article.

Jim Godfrey        
Jim Godfrey                            
President & CEO, CCCS of Maryland and Delaware

 

Learning to live within our means is a lot like building a house brick-by-brick. It doesn't happen overnight. It takes time, effort, and self-control and requires us to make countless decisions. At times, it may seem like an endless process - especially when we're encouraged to "spend, spend, spend" like we are during the holidays. But if we remain true to our budget and goals, the financial skills and security we gain are worth infinitely more than any tinsel-wrapped gift we might give or receive. View full article.

           

 

Worried you won't have enough money to get each of your family, friends, and co-workers a gift? Never fear! Time spent together is often more priceless than anything you can buy. Here are 12 ways to create a lasting memory:

 

Reindeer read-a-thon - If you have young children, take them to the public library to check out holiday-themed books.  Then read one out loud each evening. View full article. 

 

        
  

The holiday season gives scammers a golden opportunity. The hectic pace and increased focus on shopping leave many consumers distracted, so they're easier targets for a rip-off. Here are two of the many holiday strategies scammers use to steal our money, time, and identities -- and ways to avoid being scrooged: View full article.

            
Final Resources
 More Articles in this Edition

Charity Check - Many charities reach out this time of year to ask for a donation-but some groups who contact you may not be reputable.  The FTC offers advice on how to tell if an organization is trustworthy.  View full article

Ask A Counselor
Final Thoughts  View these articles.
  
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Contact:
Nancy Stark, CCCS Community Outreach Liaison
[email protected] / 410-357-0614
  
Do you know someone who is having money problems?  Encourage them to call us at 1-800-642-2227.
  
Do you have questions about your DMP?  Call 1-800-571-2227.  We're here to help!
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