Our local Champaign County Saves (CCS) effort has partnered with the Champaign Public Library to offer a financial literacy series starting February 10. It will be the first event of America Saves Week 2009. The programs are:

February 10 Keeping Your Home

Land of Lincoln Legal Assistance Foundation attorney Karen Hsu will discuss homeownership basics and potential options for avoiding foreclosure.

February 23 Robeson Pavilion Rooms A and B will be the site of our America Saves Week Kick-Off Press Conference and Financial Literacy Summit at 10 a.m. We will have mayoral proclamations and a special guest appearance by Abe Lincoln (portrayed by Steve Shoemaker) relating his stories of thrift throughout his lifetime. Our Champaign County Saves partners will also review the financial education opportunities they offer to the community.

February 24 Outlook and Opportunities – Don't Fear the Bear!

With so much market and economic uncertainty, it can be difficult to stay focused on your long-term goals. Mike Kessel of Edward Jones will discuss previous market cycles, inflation, real estate, and current opportunities for investors.

March 10 Get Out of Debt, Fast!

It's so easy to get in over your head so join Scott Olthoff of Salt & Light to learn how to recover your financial health … FAST!

March 24 Estate Planning: What Everyone Needs to Know!

Ben Franklin of Franklin Financial Planning will review the basic aspects of planning an estate. Common terms and tools used in estate planning will be explained. There will be time for questions about individual situations.

All programs are free and open to the public, and will be held at the new main library at 200 W. Green at 7 p.m. Please pre-register with the library at 403-2070.

The third annual America Saves Week is from February 22–March 1, 2009. America Saves encourages individuals to reduce debt and save money, a challenging task since last fall. Our local Champaign County Saves coalition is comprised of financial institutions, counselors, educators, not for profit agencies, city officials, and interested individuals. We sponsor financial literacy programs to help individuals with their monetary challenges. Additional classes will be held throughout the week such as Land of Lincoln Legal Assistance Foundation hosting a Checkwise class at 5:30 p.m. for those without a checking account. Kathy Leary of Central Illinois Debt Management and Credit Education will teach the course so contact Kathy at kathy@cidmce.org for further information. Additional classes are forming on credit scoring and identity theft. If you would like to attend a class, host a class, or volunteer please contact me at 333-7672.