Financial empowerment Initiative expanded

SANDUSKY — The United Way of Erie County recently announced the continued expansion of its financial empowerment initiative through the addition of experienced educators in the initiative's second year. This follows the successful completion of its first workshop cohort earlier this year. Facilitators and financial professionals participating in this program are dedicated to helping individuals and families strengthen their financial knowledge, build confidence and create pathways toward long-term stability, according to an organizational statement. It's also part of the nonprofit's broader commitment to strengthen financial stability for individuals and families through education, workforce connections, tax preparation assistance, transportation access and supportive services. What is it? The initiative focuses on providing accessible, practical financial literacy education throughout the areas of Erie and Huron counties it serves through workshops, community conversations and hands-on learning opportunities. Programming centers on topics which include budgeting, saving, improving credit, managing debt, banking, investing and long-term financial planning with a strong emphasis on supporting ALICE (asset-limited, income-constrained, employed) households. "At United Way of Erie County, we believe financial literacy is one of the most important tools for creating long-term stability and opportunity," said E.J. Brinson, executive director of United Way of Erie County. "We are intentionally bringing together educators, facilitators and financial professionals who can connect with people in meaningful ways and provide practical knowledge that helps individuals and families make informed financial decisions," Brinson said. Qualifying households "deserve more than short-term solutions: They deserve access to knowledge, opportunity, strategy and a community willing to walk alongside them," he added. "This work is about equipping people with (the) tools, confidence and support they can apply in everyday life." The expanded initiative includes workshops, educational programming and collaborative community partnerships designed to make financial education more accessible and engaging throughout Erie County. Workshops are being offered in collaboration with local churches, nonprofit organizations and agency partners to ensure programming remains trusted, community-centered and accessible to residents where they already feel connected and supported. Initial workshop topics include: • Budgeting and managing debt • Understanding credit and building a saver's mindset • Introduction to investing The United Way of Erie County recently completed its first cohort of financial literacy workshops, "marking an exciting milestone for the initiative," the organizational statement noted. Testimonials from participants and highlights from the workshops can be viewed on United Way of Erie County's website, uweriecounty.org, where individuals may also register for upcoming workshop opportunities and future cohorts. Participants who complete designated workshops may also become eligible for additional supportive resources connected to United Way of Erie County's pillars of health, education and financial stability. These resources are designed to help individuals and families navigate barriers that may impact their ability to remain stable, continue their education, maintain employment or address urgent household needs. Ford focused on the mission Joining the initiative is Kiera Ford, an educator, writer and community leader with more than a decade of experience in education, curriculum design, strategic communication and community engagement. A graduate of Sandusky High School, Miami University, Southern Methodist University and the University of North Texas, "Ford is passionate about creating educational opportunities that empower individuals and strengthen communities," the statement noted. Ford will support the initiative through workshop facilitation, curriculum development and community outreach efforts focused on helping residents build practical financial skills and confidence. "Her experience in education and communication will help ensure programming remains engaging, accessible and responsive to the needs of local families and individuals," the statement read. Ford stressed how "financial stability goes beyond bank accounts and portfolios: It offers a freedom that is physical, mental and emotional — and that type of freedom is power." Jackson jumps at new opportunity Also joining the initiative is Sophia Jackson, an educational consultant, facilitator and community educator with more than 25 years of experience supporting students, families, nonprofits and educational institutions across public schools, higher education and home education settings. Jackson earned her bachelor of science degree in business administration from The Ohio State University and her master of business administration from Indiana Wesleyan University. She currently serves as an adjunct instructor and partners with nonprofits and schools to increase access to financial literacy education and empowerment resources that support long-term stability and self-sufficiency. "This work matters to me because I've seen how financial instability impacts entire families," Jackson said. "Financial empowerment gives people the tools and education to break cycles of crisis and build stability. When I connect people to knowledge and resources, I know we're investing in generational change." Haraway hopes to help others The initiative will also include collaboration with Ben Haraway, an Edward Jones financial adviser based in Sandusky. Haraway, who has a background as a certified public accountant and a degree from Ashland University, specializes in helping individuals and families understand long-term financial planning, investing and wealth-building strategies. Haraway will contribute to the initiative through educational workshops and community conversations focused on helping residents better understand investing, retirement planning and financial decision-making. "His professional experience and approachable teaching style will support United Way's goal of making financial education practical, accessible and relevant for individuals and families at every stage of life," the organizational statement noted. All in this together Together, "The facilitators will help expand financial literacy opportunities throughout Erie County by providing trusted education, practical guidance and community-based learning experiences that help residents build confidence and improve their financial futures," the statement read. The United Way of Erie County is also: • Working to provide these services and additional financial empowerment resources to employees and businesses connected through its workplace campaign partnerships • Seeking additional community partners, sponsors, employers, churches and organizations interested in helping expand financial empowerment opportunities throughout Erie and Huron counties; Those interested in partnering, sponsoring workshops, hosting sessions, donating and/or supporting the initiative are encouraged to connect with United Way to learn how they can help strengthen long-term financial stability for local individuals and families. People can email staff@uweriecounty.org for more information.