Take Charge of Your Finances
Online Financial Health Series
Worrying about money can affect your mental health and even your physical well-being, but your Benefit Fund’s free and convenient online series, “Take Charge of Your Finances,” can help you take control of your finances. Designed specifically for 1199SEIU members, this popular program offers real-world information and strategies, with access to online presentations that you can attend from the comfort and convenience of your home.
The spring semester starts in April and will once again be led by financial expert Ryan C. Mack. In the meantime, you can access the full curriculum below. Available in both English and Spanish, the course materials and videos help you get a handle on your finances.
Meet the Financial Expert, Ryan C. Mack
Ryan C. Mack is the author of Living in the Village: Build Your Financial Future and Strengthen Your Community.
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The Detroit native has always believed in giving back to the community, and said he found the perfect fit with the Benefit Fund. “What drew me to 1199SEIU and the Benefit Fund was the environment,” Ryan said. “There’s a commitment to the membership that says, ‘We’re here to help you,’ and then surrounds them with resources.”
Take Charge of Your Finances Spring 2021 Webinar Schedule and Video Library
It’s All in Your Mind: Understanding Your Money Mindset
This webinar teaches basic financial literacy. Ryan defines common financial terms and discusses the purpose of money. This session explores how having a healthy mindset surrounding money can help improve your financial standing.
Saving Strategies, Part 1: Getting a Handle on Spending
Core
In this webinar, you'll learn about budgeting, interest, saving and avoiding financial pitfalls. It also provides an overview of the uses of money and the dangers of excessive spending.
Next Live Webinar: Saturday, April 10, 2021
Saving Strategies, Part 2: Getting a Handle on Spending
Core
Ryan continues to offer real-world strategies you can use to protect your financial health and emotional well-being.
Next Live Webinar: Saturday, April 24, 2021
Recovering From Financial Hardship
New!
Many people experience financial hardships – you are not alone. With this webinar, you will learn how to recover from financial setbacks, negotiate with creditors, understand short-term loans and more.
Next Live Webinar: Saturday, May 22, 2021
The Importance of Credit: How to Use It, Not Abuse It
Core
This webinar builds on the themes in the previous sessions to help you understand credit, learn how credit scores are calculated and find out how you can obtain a copy of your credit report. Ryan also examines the advantages and disadvantages of credit.
(Room password: 1199membersonly)
Next Live Webinar: Saturday, May 8, 2021
Working Toward Retirement, Part 1: Building Your Nest Egg
Core
Covering money management and long-term goals, this webinar will help you determine how much income you will need in retirement, and how to calculate your pension and Social Security benefits.
(Room password: 1199membersonly)
Next Live Webinar: Saturday, June 5, 2021
Working Toward Retirement, Part 2: Building Your Nest Egg
Core
Ryan continues the discussion on long-term goals and teaches about investments and financial terminology. This webinar will help you determine how much money you will need once you stop working and the best time to start collecting benefits.
Next Live Webinar: Saturday, June 19, 2021
Testimonials
“I called my credit card company and was able to get my interest rate lowered from 16.49 percent to 13.49 percent. Thank you so much for your time and all the wisdom you provided. I truly appreciate it.”
Neyra, RN
“Ryan, I took your advice: I called my credit card company and they lowered my interest rate from 21.99 percent to 16.99 percent. It's a one-year plan, but it's still something to me. Thank you for continuing to help people like me.”
Amelie, HHA