Women Helping Women Understand Finances

“Now I know where my money is and how to use it. My husband always handled our financial affairs. Then it was my stockbroker and kids. After attending the Women’s Financial Information Forum, I’m in charge of my own affairs, and it feels good.”

This is a typical comment from one of the 42 women who participated in the seven-week financial forum co-sponsored by Emerald Heights and the AARP. Professional money managers presented lectures ranging from How Does Your Cash Flow? to Managing Your Risk; from Banking and Credit to Investing in Retirement.

After each lecture and a coffee break, women gathered in groups of 10 with one or two of the 12 Emerald Heights facilitators to talk about their homework assignments, ask questions and discuss financial issues of importance to them.

“Women of this age tend to defer to men whenever finances are discussed,” said Betty McLean, director of residential services. “The AARP advised us that learning is more effective for women in financial courses tailored especially for them. Our experience proves they were right.”

Resident Peg Mingus, who chaired the forum, said the classes helped participants organize all their materials, including a list of important contacts such as banks and lawyers. “Trust was developed early. Many people have similar concerns, and talking with skilled professionals and other women helped us tremendously.”

Emerald Heights is considering offering a similar class for Emerald Heights men and people from the community at-large.