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Financial Literacy Resources

Resources for the Recession

A website mentioned before on this resource page with excellent information for both teachers and learners is now updated to reflect the needs of consumers in these tough economic times. See the US Financial Literacy and Education Commission site.

Check out the new links for Borrow Smart! Don't Be a Victim, Foreclosure Prevention Resources (in Spanish also) and, in particular, Managing Your Money in Challenging Times: This link provides additional links on various topics relevant to ABE learners including Federal tax information and a site from UMASS Extension entitled Financial Security: Managing Money in Tough Times. Teachers can use these links to find resources to explore issues such as how to handle stress in difficult circumstances, stretching your food dollars and things to do when money is short. The site is designed for direct consumer use and may be a useful tool for computer-based lessons.

The pressures of these uncertain economic times make being smart about how we use our money even more important. Help learners know that small, everyday steps can make a difference in their spending habits. Useful tips for surviving the recession can be found at the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants including what to do if your are laid off and how to stretch your dollar. Be sure to review Six Ways to Stretch Your Dollar for tips that can be useful immediately.

As bad economic news dominates the daily headlines teaching financial literacy skills has never been more relevant to helping adult learners handle the complex financial decisions of everyday life and understanding their social implications.