N. Charleston Organization Holds Money Fair to Promote Financial Literacy
Taking a step towards financial literacy, N. Charleston organization, Increasing H.O.P.E Financial Training Center made headlines by hosting a money fair on Saturday. This event saw around 100 community members extending their support and being a part of the educational fair.
About Increasing H.O.P.E
Increasing H.O.P.E, an acronym for Helping Others Prosper Economically, celebrated 19 years of service by organizing this event at the Opportunity Center in North Charleston. The organization delivers comprehensive resources for individuals to manage their money and sustain assets. The initiative was spearheaded by Dorothea Bernique, the Founder and Executive Director of Increasing H.O.P.E, who believes in educating community members in all areas of personal finance.
Panel Discussion and Vendors
The fair was initiated by a panel discussion, involving legislative leaders such as Rep. J.A. Moore (D-Berkeley, Charleston), Rep. Kathy Landing (R-Charleston), and Sen. Sean Bennett (R-Charleston, Dorchester). During this conversation, these influential figures reflected on various financial issues prevalent in the community and discussed potential solutions.
Sen. Bennett acknowledged the crucial role of education in poverty alleviation, stating that graduating high school is the first step to enter the middle class, followed by getting a full-time job and waiting to have children until financial stability is achieved.
In addition to the engaging panel discussion, over 30 vendors joined the event, providing valuable information on insurance, investment, mortgages, and banking. The event also conducted two specialized classes focusing on housing, credits, and starting a small business.
Emphasizing Early Financial Literacy
One of the key themes of the event was the importance of early financial literacy, especially among the younger generation. Bernique pointed out that the life skills learned at a young age tend to stay put throughout life, thereby emphasizing the critical nature of introducing financial literacy from a younger age.
Supporting this idea, Pam Bryant, the Vice President and Lead Specialist for Philanthropy and Community Impact with the Wells Fargo Foundation, stressed the importance of instilling good financial habits from an early age. According to Bryant, teachings about saving money, paying oneself first, and responsibly acquiring debt should be instilled in children as these skillsets follow them into adulthood.
Financial Literacy Classes Throughout the Year
Those who couldn’t attend the event and are interested in learning more about managing their finances could avail of several financial classes arranged by Increasing H.O.P.E throughout the year. Dorothea Bernique encourages interested individuals to either visit their website for more information or give a call at 843-225-4343.
