America Saves and AFCPE® Connect to an AFC Pilot
During America Saves Week 2019, America Saves and the Association for Financial Counseling & Planning Education® (AFCPE)® collaborated and launched the Connect to an AFC® pilot. The pilot connected over 50 individuals to Accredited Financial Counselor® (AFC®) professionals across the country.
Volunteer AFC®'s provided free, unbiased and non-commercial in-person or virtual one-on-one financial counseling to savers who made a commitment to saving during America Saves Week 2019 by taking the America Saves Pledge. The America Saves Pledge is a tool that assists you in identifying your savings goal and creating a savings plan.
“Oftentimes the hardest part is taking that first step to ask for help and realizing that it’s available to you! An AFC® professional has the knowledge, skills, and experience to meet you where you are and create a specific action plan to meet your unique situation and needs,” said Rachael DeLeon, Director of Communications & Member Services, AFCPE®. The commitment and dedication to their saving plans has already paid off for some of the savers, and AFC® professionals continue to be inspired and honored to help others accomplish their financial goals.
“This was fun, and I would do it again. As a matter of fact, my saver and I are going to continue with check-ins every few months for the time being.” –AFC®, Virginia
One of the exciting success stories from the pilot is from Jeannie in Delaware. When asked about her experience, Jeannie said, “The gentleman was a good listener and heard all of my concerns and problem areas before showing me the best way to approach things. His strategies were spot on and once I implemented them, the issues dissolved. I am so very grateful for the help and send my love and gratitude to all, especially the smart young man who offered his wisdom with such generosity.”
After meeting with her counselor and working on her credit, Jeannie was able to accomplish her financial goal and purchase a home!
“Partnering with AFCPE® and bringing this free resource to our community of savers has been so rewarding and inspiring. One of the hardest things to do when you’re trying to change is to ask for guidance. Knowing the AFC®’s are providing a professional and unbiased service for our savers was so comforting and put me at ease knowing they are one step closer to meeting their financial goals”, said Lindsay Ferguson, America Saves Director of Strategic Engagement.
“Here is the result of my session. :) My new home!!! I am so very thankful!” –Jeannie"
