Developing a savings plan, repairing credit and preventing identity theft were among the many topics covered during the recent Money Smart Resource Fair at Indiana University Northwest
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Representatives from area banks were on hand at the event, which was sponsored by the Northwest Indiana Money Smart Week Council. A few members of the IUN staff also were in attendance.
“When it comes to finances, the most important thing is putting together a budget you can live with,” said IUN director of Financial Aid Harold Burtley, as he greeted participants.
In addition to the presentations, vendors were on hand to talk with visitors.
Nursing students offered blood pressure readings, health education information, and nutritional/dietary support and health screenings.
IUN employee Barbara Kubiak of Gary stopped in at the event after work hours, taking advantage of the health screenings after filling her bag with money matters pamphlets and other handouts.
“There’s always something new to learn about managing your money,” Kubiak said, as she waited her turn by the nurse’s table. “I’m always open to new ideas.”
There are various reasons that people need help figuring out money matters, according to Yvette Irons-Johnson, assistant vice president and branch manager of First Midwest Bank.
“They may not have had the proper resources available, or it could be generational — they follow what their parents did,” she said.
Dian Reyome, financial capabilities/CRA officer from Centier Bank, agreed, adding that there is another important aspect to teaching young adults about proper money management.
“Some of the younger generation are very electronic-minded and do their banking online,” she said. “But they may not know many of the basics — they still need to know how to balance a checkbook and avoid overdraft fees.”
Gerald Antioch of Gary was on his way to class when he heard about the fair and decided to see what it was all about.
“There’s a lot of important tips on these hand-outs,” he said as he picked up a sheet listing “13 Things an Identity Thief Won’t Tell You. “I know most of these, but a few are surprising — like someone taking a picture of your credit card while you’re in line shopping at the store.”
The Money Smart Resource Fair also took place at Ivy Tech Community College in Valparaiso on April 23.
The two fairs were offered, along with more than 3,500 free financial programs, nationwide, during Money Smart Week April 18-25.
Coordinated by the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago and its Money Smart partners, Money Smart Week in Indiana was developed to inform consumers in regard to various financial matters.
Sue Ellen Ross is a freelance reporter.