In the News - March 2008
Saving for a better financial future
LITTLE ROCK - A wealthier future and material rewards can begin with a
commitment - a commitment to making your money work harder. That money can then
go towards whatever goal you set such as a new home, a new car or early
retirement.
"It's about taking financial action such as putting the plastic back into
your wallet and bringing your lunch to work. Most of all, it's about changing
your spending and saving habits so that you can pay down your debt and gain true
financial freedom," says Laura Connerly, an extension family resources
management instructor for the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture.
The Division of Agriculture is launching "Arkansas Saves," a program to teach
Arkansans how to begin a savings program that can help them realize their
financial goals. The program is supported by the America Saves campaign, which
is managed by the non-profit Consumer Federation of America. Arkansas Saves can
be found online at
www.arfamilies.org/arkansassaves/default.htm.
"Many Americans spend more than they make," says Connerly. "Unfortunately,
life doesn't always go according to plan. Millions of Americans every year find
themselves unprepared for financial emergencies they might have never thought
they'd be facing. The good news is that saving is easier than you might think."
Connerly says anyone who agrees to work toward a savings goal such as home
ownership, school tuition, retirement or debt repayment can be in the program.
They can start modestly by setting a monthly savings goal of as little as $10,
then saving this amount each month.
By enrolling in the program, participants will receive savings tips,
newsletters and resources that help make the savings habit easier, Connerly
says. They will also receive notice about educational meetings.
"Your only obligation as a participant is to develop a savings goal and work
toward it," she says.
For more information on the program, contact your county extension agent or
go to www.uaex.edu and selecting the Arkansas Saves link at
the bottom left. The Cooperative Extension Service is part of the U of A
Division of Agriculture.
March 7, 2008
Media Contact: Lamar James
Extension Communications Specialist
U of A Division of Agriculture
Cooperative Extension Service
(501) 671-2187 or (501) 753-0207
ljames@uaex.edu
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