ANDREWS AFB, Md. –
The Airman and Family Readiness Center has noticed a trend for their "It's YOUR Money: Take Charge!" class offered the first Monday of every month: for the past two months, the class is filled to capacity with Airmen and civilians wanting to know how to make better financial choices.
"I think we're seeing larger crowds at our financial workshops because of the economy, fuel prices, and people in general wanting to learn how to budget," said Nina Sargent, 316th Force Support Squadron A&FRC community and financial readiness assistant. "You see it on the evening news almost every night. I think people are realizing how much they are spending and where their hard-earned money is being spent."
Held monthly at the A&FRC, this financial class teaches basic tools and techniques to better manage money that will help increase savings and decrease debt. "In this class, we like to say it's all about choices," said Mrs. Sargent. "Good choices, bad choices, both determine your financial situation. And, then you have the things you have no control over, like gas prices to factor in. This class teaches you how to achieve your personal financial goals to become financially secure."
The "It's YOUR Money" workshop differs from the "Money Mondays" classes also offered at the A&FRC, "In the 'It's YOUR Money' class, we delve into the specifics of budgeting whereas in the 'Money Mondays' class, we cover a different topic every time, like buying a home, paying for college tuition, and so on," said Mrs. Sargent.
The "It's YOUR Money" workshop is affiliated with the Andrews Federal Credit Union; a partnership which provides a unique perspective. "A subject-matter expert provide information and a presentation on budgeting. Their education representative reviews all the fundamentals of budgeting and even terms that 'Joe on the street' may have not heard of like compound interest," said Mrs. Sargent. "Some people are intimidated by finances, don't have the time to budget or think it's too hard when it's quite simple. This class is a great way to begin getting your financial house in order."
The combination of the cost of living in the area coupled with young Airmen who are just starting their careers with paychecks they've never had before, the whole situation can be overwhelming. "But finances are not something that you can ignore -- especially our military members. It affects your security clearance and overall mission-readiness," said Mrs. Sargent.
The next "It's YOUR Money: Take Charge" class is Monday, Sept. 8 from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the A&FRC. Attendees are welcome to bring a sack lunch. The A&FRC is located at 1191 Menoher Drive. Call 301-981-7087 for reservations and information.