Help Improve Financial Literacy in Deep East Texas

The past quarter has been full of action! We have officially launched our carpentry workforce development program with the help of a community partner. We have been able to construct beds made out of donated lumber from Georgia Pacific to give away to our community members who have children sleeping on the floor. This is extremely exciting for us and we have had great results so far!

Our regular programming has experienced an influx of new clientele. We have a new loan program designed to assist those who fall victim to predatory loans. We help them by refinancing high-cost debt (in some cases over 500% interest) into an affordable interest rate and flexible terms. This program has allowed us to increase our client base beyond our previous circles of influence. On average, we are meeting 2-3 households each week. Every goal in relation to the number of participants we have in the program that we have set has been met.

Our goal for 2022 was to deepen our relationships with our existing clients rather than to begin new programs that would attract new clients. To date, we have done that. In general, our clients utilize multiple services outside of our financial coaching. They are introduced to more members of our team, interact with them in multiple locations, and visit us more often. 

As the year progresses, we would like the results we've seen to continue. Our employment coaching clients are getting great careers that will allow them upward mobility. For example, one of our clients (Kayla) had no money, no plan, and no hope. She became a financial opportunity center client and was diligent about following the advice of her financial coach. She enrolled in our IT Apprenticeship Program (LIFE Tech). Less than two months and three certifications later, she was recently offered a job paying $15.00 per hour. What a success!

Thank you for your support! Stay tuned!