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July 2014Vol 5, Issue 7
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TOGETHER
We can make a difference
Message From MCUCD

Fireworks and food, coupled with friends and family, are a major part of the July 4th holiday we just celebrated, but it's the spirit behind the red, white, and blue that makes it special for Americans.  

 

It's more than decorating our homes and barbequing burgers and brats. It's about the feeling of pride welling up our eyes as we place our hand to heart and say the Pledge of Allegiance or sing the National Anthem.  

 

Being a patriot means loving America and standing next to our neighbors to do what's right for this country no matter our political differences. It's about thanking a soldier returning from war, honoring our veterans with respect, and voting to ensure our voice is heard.  

 

July 4 th is only one of four federal holidays celebrated on the same day each year and wouldn't be a day of celebration without the dedication of those who serve to protect our freedom. Don't ever take that for granted and be a proud, yet humble, American as we celebrate our independence this month and all year long.

 

Alana

In This Issue
Making a Difference
Moblilizing Our Communities
Tips from a Financial Counselor
July Consumer Topic
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Making a Difference 
Rural Employment Opportunity
 
null Freedom and equality means something different to everyone, but most Americans can agree that hard work and having job opportunities are key to long-term financial freedom.

Rural Employment Opportunities (REO) has been serving Montana families since 1981. REO's mission is to empower families and communities with workforce development needs to assure economic security.  

 

Their new program- Access Opportunities- is for low-income families with a minor in the household.  REO staff members work closely with participants to help them determine the best ways to reach their financial goals. Participants choose to enter a work-related college program or attend a vocational, technical or trade school for short-term job training. Participants are offer a paid, on-the-job experience for those who are ready to join the workforce.

  

People enrolled in Access Opportunities also have the option to participate in a matched savings program. MCUCD has partnered again with REO to help coordinate credit union involvement across the state in rural communities.The new matched savings program enables participants to attend college, take on-line classes, or purchase a computer for education. For every $1 they save with their local credit union, REO matches it with $3 -- based on a savings plan that is developed for their needs. Participants can save up to $1,500 to receive a match of $4,500 to apply to their ongoing education. 

 

If you would like more information about REO programs, please contact their Helena office at 1-800-546-1140.

Montana Military Symposium    
Mobilizing Our Communities

 

Did you know 102,246 veterans and 17,812 military family members live in Montana? Additionally, 8,126 veterans will be reintegrating into communities across the state.

While so many organizations and financial institutions want to give back and serve these brave men and women, it is often hard to know their unique needs. ArmyOne Source, along with Montana Military Alliances, and Impact Montana, is hosting a full day workshop to increase support of service members, veterans, and their families. The workshop will be held in both Billings and Helena.
  
Billings Symposium: Tuesday, August 12 - Faith Chapel 

Helena Symposium: Friday, August 15 - Carroll College


These workshops will address the many needs of military families through all angles. They are open to the public, but specifically target professionals in the legal, financial, and behavioral health fields. They are a free event to learn, share, and network with fellow community members who are taking action to increase support for our Montana military community. Sessions will cover topics like Financial Wellness, Military Families and Tax Credits, and Your Rights as Renters.  

 

For more information or to register for the event, please email Sheila Warner with Army OneSource. 

 

Tips from a Financial Counselor
We Believe in FiCEP...and Financial Counseling

Eleven students from credit unions and partner organizations throughout Montana are enrolled in the latest Financial Counseling Certification Program or FiCEP. After the current program duration, there will be a total of 42 FiCEP financial counselors in Montana.

While we are passionate about financial education and asset building around here at MCUCD, we believe that the next step toward long-term financial stability is financial counseling. By November, all of the MCUCD staff will have this certification. After all, why should we promote the program if we can't walk the walk?

Here are a few of our tips we have picked up along the way:

Karen: One of the best tips I learned early on in my career is
'No Shoulding' anyone you work with. I love this advice as a counselor because I'm not here telling individuals what they 'should' be doing with their finances. Rather, I want to coach them to discover for themselves what actions are best for them to take in order to reach their financial goals
.

Jami: In my opinion, the best counselors are those brave enough to relate honestly to the person across the desk. Recently, in a meeting with another counselor, we admitted embarrassing money mistakes from our pasts, deciding we need a collaborative list to share for motivation (and humor). There is something powerful about being able to say, "Believe me, I get it. That is why I know you can do it."

Carin: There is an overwhelming amount of financial advice out there. Do what feels right for your family and own situation, set financial goals that make sense to you. While a counselor can lead you in a good direction, it will ultimately be up to you to reach your goals. Keep trying out money management tools until you find the right fit. 
Topic of the Month
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We think it is important to extend our gratitude by sharing information and resources to help military and veterans achieve financial stability. Unfortunately, some of the same people who have made such sacrifices for our country, struggle financially at home. 

 

Visit our Consumer Resource page to access resources for the current topic "Military Family Finances," including a newsletter article, poster, featured resource, and resource guide.