America Saves Week 2013 Campaign Led by UConn Extension
America Saves Week (ASW) is an opportunity individuals and families to assess and improve their own savings status as well as a special time for organizations to promote good savings behavior. Nationally, it is coordinated by the Consumer Federation of America and the American Savings Education Council. Started in 2007, thousands of organizations participate in the Week, reaching millions of people across the nation encouraging individuals and families to save money and build personal wealth.
Held February 25th through March 2nd of this year, the week included a Financial Education Expo sponsored by the Connecticut Department of Banking at the Legislative Office Building in Hartford; saving workshops for Hartford Job Corps students and HRA of New Britain program participants, and discussions with Naugatuck Head Start parents about savings goals. Dream boxes were decorated by participants with pictures representing their different savings goals. There was a drawing for personal finance books targeted to older teens and young adults. Participants had the opportunity to make a pledge to save money regularly for specific goals such as further education, an emergency fund, a car or a down payment on a home. Those making a pledge also were entered in drawings for grocery store gift cards. A mini-grant to support this project was provided by Bank of America. People’s Bank and Bank of America donated coloring books, financial information and other materials.
UConn Extension launched its first campaign this year with the support of these partnering organizations: Connecticut Department of Banking; Connecticut Department of Labor; Hartford Job Corps; HRA of New Britain, Inc.; Naugatuck Head Start; New Haven County Extension Resource Council, Inc.; New Haven Free Public Library; People’s Bank and Bank of America Foundation.
Plans are being developed now for America Saves Week 2014 which will take place February 24th through March 1st. Employers, financial institutions, businesses, colleges and schools, community and faith-based organizations and others are invited to learn more about how they can participate by contacting UConn Extension at 203.407.3160 or faye.griffiths-smith@uconn.edu .
