April is Financial Literacy Month: Ease Into a More Complete Understanding of Your Finances

By: Ellen Frick, Outreach Coordinator, NHS of Baltimore

Money Management International has declared April Financial Literacy Month. Being financially literate simply means possessing an understanding of your personal finances. Fiscal matters are already intimidating to a great deal of people and with so many economic changes throughout the past few years things can be even more confusing. However, MMI emphasizes that financial literacy is a skill we can all maintain. The non-profit credit counseling agency challenges everyone to participate in their thirty steps towards a better understanding of finances.

The thirty-step process is intended to be completed in a month, one step each day. The first step on the path towards financial wellness is to be aware that financial stability is a process and a commitment. Further steps include simple actions such as goal setting, determining net worth, and taking a quiz to cater directly to your financial concerns and needs. In addition to the step-by-step course of action, MMI has compiled a list of tips and gadgets and a blog to ease the process. For additional assistance, check out the FDIC’s consumer tip of the week .

An important thing to remember on your path towards financial literacy is that you do not have to go at it alone. There are countless free resources available to individuals looking to improve their finances. At NHS of Baltimore we teach financial fitness principles and skills in our classes which are held in the evenings. Another great way to expand your financial knowledge is to attend our Financial Fitness Day on Saturday, April 17th from 8:30am – 1:30pm. The event will be held at Pleasant Hope Baptist Church ,located at 430 E Belvedere Avenue in Baltimore. Free workshops at the event include “Beautifying Your Home-Post Purchase Maintenance,” “Prevent Foreclosure!-Loan Modification Options,” and “Money 101- Financing Basics for College Students.” Call 410-327-1200 to register or for more information.