Asset Building Program Resources

Throughout 2012 the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) sought insight into effective financial education from organizations across the the country. Through an Request For Information (RFI) process and individual meetings at four regional sites, the CFPB compiled and distilled the lessons learned from the field.

“The participants in our program were homeless for a myriad of reasons, loss of employment, family disputes, mental illness, substance abuse etc… By providing educational coaching to groups and individuals I am able to help facilitate change and growth in our participants’ lives. I get the privilege of helping people realize the vision that they have for their lives.”-Sherri Allen-ReevesLife Skills ManagerAn Economic Development Strategy for Bronzeville

Assets are Key to Economic Stability

Despite a snowstorm, graduates of Heartland Human Care Services’ (HHCS) Asset Building Programs took center stage at the Hayes Center on March 5th. Graduates of the program included participants from HHCS's various asset building programs, including: Meet-Your-Match, IDEA, Family Self-Sufficiency, and the GEAR UP program.

As America Saves week comes to an end in the midst of tax season, we thought we’d take a look at how people can save a portion of their refund. This year, Illinois’ State Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is larger than in previous years. A qualifying family of four receives a tax credit of $5,759 this tax season from their combined Federal and Illinois EITC. Add $1,000 per child from the Child Tax credit, and $7,759 in refundable tax credits can mean a big difference for working families.

IABG & the Chicago City Treasurer’s Office is pleased to announce the launch of the Bank On Chicago Mini Grant Program.

“I cannot express enough how many people come to me admitting to having a spending addiction or an unbalanced budget who want to change and just need a little direction. It’s inspiring.”

-Megan Schmitz, Case Manager with Catholic Charities

LEND, the student-run non-profit out of Northwestern University, provides microloans and business training services to Evanston entrepreneurs. Serving primarily low-income women, LEND most often helps entrepreneurs transition businesses like salons, paint contractors, or boutique jewelers to the next stage.

Money Smart Week, in its 10th year, appropriately falls during April's National Financial Literacy Month. The public awareness campaign stresses the importance of financial literacy and offers free educational seminars from April 21-28. IABG partners across the state are hosting workshop and seminars to help households build their financial stability.

Last year, President Obama proclaimed April as National Financial Literacy Month, calling it a time to “recommit to improving financial literacy and ensuring all Americans have access to trustworthy financial services and products.”