In 2011, I was challenged to find a financial literacy curriculum that would benefit the culture and learning style of low-income people. I searched and searched online, talked to nonprofits, banks, and other institutions. I discovered SEVERAL wonderful money management classes; however, they were written for people who have money. Where were the curriculum s for the people utilizing food stamps and/or financial assistance. Where were the curriculum s for people living paycheck to paycheck? I couldn’t find one, so I decided to create one. A dream began to form.
I have a master’s degree in counseling, and I had worked for the State of New Mexico as an Income Support Specialist helping low-income people. I had also worked and volunteered in multiple places that allowed me the opportunity to connect with people who didn’t have much money. In the first few classes, I recognized that low-income people typically do not take “vacations.” They do not utilize “dry cleaners,” but they do need the “Laundromat.” Low-income people need a money management system that is simple, practical, and effective. This dream started by creating a basic worksheet has now evolved into an entire educational system and this has been the result of many, many hours which included many classes and revisions over the past eight years.
My dream of creating a simple Income and Spending Expense Worksheet that would benefit low-income people has now become a dream come true. Money & ME, LLC provides an excellent education system that includes workbooks, money kits, technology (PowerPoint Presentations) and Training for organizations who are inspired to help low-income people take control of their money and their lives. As I hear back from the organizations and participants who have gone through the Money & ME program, I see and hear of lives being changed. The energy of “Creating Positive Change” inspires me to do more. Currently there is a Christian Edition, Secular Edition (Words of Wisdom), and Spanish Edition available. Four years ago, I started on a Teen Edition that is almost complete!
I want to thank all of you who have been with me on this journey! Your support, expertise, and perseverance have inspired me to continue when there were many times I wanted to quit. I never would have dreamed in 2011 that Money & ME would be a business helping hundreds of people nationwide and the potential to help thousands! It is also ironic, that “Money” is indeed my last name. I was born with it. Join me today on the conference call to hear from others who have used this program and what they have to say about it. What’s your dream?