DOWNEY - Downey Federal Credit Union is sponsoring a series of free financial education workshops exclusively for women, starting Feb. 2.The workshop series, called Preserving, Earning and Acquiring Real Life Skills (PEARLS), are in conjunction with the city of Downey and Springboard, a credit management organization. The purpose of the workshops is to "enable participants to manage their own finances to better their life." Workshops will be presented in English but take-home reference materials will be available in English or Spanish. The workshop series includes: Feb. 2 -The Power of Paycheck Planning - Learn how to budget your paycheck before you spend it. Feb. 9 - Understanding Your Credit Report - Learn what is on your credit report and how a credit score is calculated. Feb. 16 -The Wise Use of Credit -Tips on how to build a solid foundation for your financial future. Feb. 23 - Road Map to Financial Freedom - Shows you how to build a debt management plan to consolidate and pay back debt. March 2 - Identity Theft and Awareness - Learn how to protect yourself from this growing problem and what to do if you are a victim. Women can attend any or all workshops at no charge. All classes will be held at the Barbara J. Riley Community and Senior Center. "Providing financial education to our members and to the community is an essential part of Downey Federal Credit Union's initiative of 'People Helping People,'" said credit union president and CEO Barbara Lamberth. "The workshops are open to all community members and we encourage everyone to take advantage of our free workshops and educational materials to improve their financial management skills." RSVP by calling (562) 862-8141, ext. 240, or e-mail rsvpseminar@downeyfcu.org.

********** Published: January 13, 2011 - Volume 9 - Issue 39