Updated: September 2008

Multicultural/Multilingual Outreach and Training

Because we are aware that the best way to reach vulnerable consumer populations is to work with trusted community entities, Consumer Action provides free multilingual publications, in-language training and support to local educators through a national network of more than 9,000 community-based organizations. This growing network, the largest and most diverse of its kind, has enabled Consumer Action to expand its reach far beyond that of its 26 staff members.

Network members include university extensions, credit counseling agencies, immigrant/refugee services, government agencies, libraries, churches, and social services—diverse community groups and nonprofits that share a commitment to financial literacy and consumer protection.

Consumer Action’s outreach staff uses a five-component module consisting of a multilingual consumer brochure, a leader’s guide, course curriculum, a PowerPoint presentation and in-person train-the-trainer instruction to distill complex consumer subjects down to easy-to-understand information and prepare network participants to teach the material in their own communities. Modules have been developed on a variety of specific consumer issues and general personal finance topics.

In addition to providing free training, materials and support, Consumer Action awards stipend grants of $1,000 to $5,000 to participating community groups in support of their local education and outreach efforts.

Under the direction of Mikael Wagner, Director of Training and Outreach, our multilingual and multicultural Community Outreach Managers offer technical advice and train-the-trainer services through a state and national network of more than 9,000-plus community-based and government agencies. Our Outreach Department provides educational materials, counsels consumers, offers workshops, provides education at community events and provides interviews to ethnic and community media organizations.

Training and Outreach Department

• Mikael Wagner, Director of Outreach and Training
• Audrey Perrott, Associate Director of Outreach and Training
• Candace Acevedo, Community Outreach Manager
• Sol Carbonell, Associate, National Priorities
• Jamie Woo, Community Outreach Manager
• Linda Williams, Community Outreach Manager
• Nelson Santiago , Community Outreach Manager

To join the Consumer Action network, or if your group already participates and would like to find out more our services, call 415-777-9648 or .

Filed Under

What We Do   ♦   Outreach & Training   ♦