MoneyWi$e at the NCRC conference

Consumer Action’s Sol Carbonell, Associate for National Priorities, traveled to Washington, DC recently to present at the National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC) annual conference. The conference’s theme was “Creating the Vision for a Fair Economy: Investing in People and Communities.”

The National Community Reinvestment Coalition is an association of community-based organizations that promote access to basic banking services including credit and savings, the creation and sustainability of affordable housing, and the development of jobs and vibrant communities for America's working families. The conference was attended by more than 500 organizations.

At the conference, Carbonell presented to NCRC’s members, including community reinvestment organizations, community development corporations, local and state government agencies, faith-based institutions, community organizing and civil rights groups, minority and women-owned business associations, and social service providers from across the nation.
Carbonell provided an overview of the MoneyWi$e project, a unique, award-winning consumer education program featuring several multilingual modules that was created by Consumer Action and Capital One. Consumer Action has also recently partnered with NCRC to provide its members with training opportunities and MoneyWi$e educational materials.

Highlighting the success of this program in reaching low-income consumers, seniors and immigrant populations, Carbonell offered tips on implementing the MoneyWi$e curriculum, such as tailoring the message, motivating consumers and inspiring them to become financially savvy.

Carbonell also shared best practices from agencies currently utilizing MoneyWi$e and provided details on upcoming train-the-trainer opportunities. Workshop attendees reviewed topics such as Banking Basics, Building and Rebuilding Good Credit, and Manage Your Money Wisely. In addition, participants received a packet with sample classroom activities for each of these subjects.
Carbonell hosted a well-received booth to display the MoneyWi$e materials as well. Representatives from several agencies, including other financial institutions, approached the booth to comment on the quality of the materials developed and distributed by Consumer Action, and our incredible, diverse, and committed outreach team.