State of Connecticut Department of Banking

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Connecticut Saves Week: Workshops at American Job Centers
Focus on Career and Financial Goals; Saving Money

This release was issued jointly with the Department of Labor and UConn Extension.

February 17, 2017

In recognition of Connecticut Saves Week, free workshops will be offered at four of the state’s American Job Centers during the week of February 26. Coordinated through the Connecticut Saves campaign, the workshops will focus on the importance of saving money, strategies to reach career and financial goals, managing credit and reducing debt.

“These workshops are geared toward helping families and individuals take charge of their educational and career goals by providing budgetary guidance and planning that can lead to future success,” said Labor Commissioner Scott D. Jackson. “Whether that plan is saving for a car to get to work, or the money to pay for tuition and books, the end goal is improving economic security and employment opportunities for our residents.”

“Connecticut Saves Week is a great time to evaluate your finances, take some time to look over your family budget, and focus on your financial goals,” said Banking Commissioner Jorge Perez.  “Managing your debt and rebuilding your credit is no simple task, but can be done with time and hard work. It can be your first step in saving toward your financial security.”

Workshops will be offered at the following American Job Centers:

  • February 28 – 9 to 11 a.m. at the Hamden American Job Center, 37 Marne Street
  • February 28 – 1 to 3 p.m. at the Bridgeport American Job Center, 2 Lafayette Square (GPS users: 350 Fairfield Avenue)
  • March 2 – 9 to 11 a.m. at the Waterbury American Job Center, 249 Thomaston Ave.
  • March 2 – 1 to 3 p.m. at the Hartford American Job Center, 3580 Main Street
Pre-registration is required and can be made online at www.cthires.com or by calling the American Job Center offering the workshop you plan to attend.  Local office numbers are as follows:
Hamden American Job Center: (203) 859-3200
Bridgeport American Job Center: (203) 455-2700
Waterbury American Job Center: (203) 437-3380
Hartford American Job Center: (860) 256-3700
Results from the 2015 FINRA Investor Education Foundation US Financial Capability Study indicate that among Connecticut residents, 48% do not have emergency funds, 52% have not set aside money for children’s college education, and 18% are spending more than their income. The Connecticut Saves campaign encourages residents to assess their savings and save automatically to achieve financial goals.
At the workshop, Faye Griffiths-Smith, Family Economics and Resource Management Educator with UConn Extension, will offer an interactive session where attendees will learn about money management techniques, practical ways to reduce expenses, strategies for saving, and tips for staying motivated. Kathleen Titsworth, Outreach Coordinator with the Connecticut Department of Banking, will discuss ways to manage debt and repair your credit. Information on credit reports and where to go to obtain your free copy will also be provided.
For more information about the Connecticut Saves campaign contact Faye Griffiths-Smith, Connecticut Saves campaign coordinator at 203-407-3160 or faye.griffiths-smith@uconn.edu.

As part of the campaign, people will be asked to take the Connecticut Saves Pledge online and commit to saving regularly for a personal or family goal. Information about the campaign and special events can be found by visiting www.connecticutsaves.org.
The Connecticut Saves campaign is coordinated by UConn Extension, and partners include the Connecticut Department of Banking, the Connecticut Department of Labor, Connecticut State Library, Hartford Job Corps Academy, People’s United Bank, Human Resources Agency of New Britain, Inc., the Office of the Connecticut State Treasurer, Liberty Bank, American Eagle Credit Union, Community Renewal Team, Torrington Savings Bank, The Village for Families and Children, and Connecticut Association for Human Services.