Our neighborhoods, and all they encompass, shape the lives of community members and, in many ways, determine opportunities. We place heavy emphasis on the beauty of cultural diversity in our community and recognize the ways that various backgrounds can impact relationships with money and finances.
For us to fully embrace our mission in offering prospective homeowners the opportunity to build the budgets and financial security necessary to achieve their dream of owning a home, educational opportunities tailored specifically to certain groups are invaluable. That’s why NWBRV’s HomeOwnership Center, comprised of an enthusiastic, skilled staff, is thrilled to be launching our Culturally Specific Workshops this fall, entitled Getting Your House in Order—designed for African Americans, by African Americans.
The course, which consists of a five week financial workshop, explores how cultural, family and personal values impact spending. Additionally, students will learn how the African American historical experience with financial institutions and money has shifted over the years. Our goal is for participants to gain a strong understanding of their personal savings, finances and budgeting, in order to develop the healthiest relationship with money possible.
“The classes have been going great!” said NeighborWorks Blackstone River Valley HomeOwnership Center Financial Coach, Rosalind Mitchell. “My overall job is to help people look at the goal of home ownership. In these particular classes, students feel like they’re in an open, safe space with people of similar cultural backgrounds to talk about everything…from their lives and mental health to their financials and money. It’s easier to share when you feel like you have so much in common.”
Workshop participant, Robin Bento, spoke enthusiastically about the courses; echoing Rosalind’s sentiments about the productive nature of the sessions.
“I chose this workshop because I wanted to get a hold on my finances and spending habits,” Robin said. “So far I’ve learned so much about spending and saving. They’ve been really helpful because I hadn’t really realized how much careless spending can send you further into debt.”
Educational opportunities like these aren’t possible without contributions from area partners like the United Way, whose generous donation makes NeighborWorks Blackstone River Valley’s mission for educational equality and inclusion a working reality.
“We’re so grateful to RI Housing and the United Way for their active financial support of our educational mission,” NeighborWorks Director of Resource Development and Communication Meg Rego said. “Without the generosity of funders like the United Way, opportunities like this wouldn’t be possible in our community.”
While fall sessions are currently well under way, it’s not too late to ring in the New Year with a new financial outlook! A second five week workshop will take place this winter on Monday January 10, 24 and 31 and February 7 and 14 from 6pm-8pm. Classes will take place at 40 South Main Street in Woonsocket. Scholarships are available to the first 10 students who register. Dinner and child care will be provided.
“I’m glad I’m taking this class. I didn’t realize how much I spend on unnecessary things. It shows that saving can be fun. I am working on bettering myself. I’m managing my money better and building my future resources. Being able to buy a house someday will be much more rewarding without using credit cards!”
Robin Bento
Please register online at www.neighborworksbrv.force.com/nwbrvcft. For more information please contact Roz Mitchell at 401-257-6129.
