According to a study by the Ramsey Solutions research team, 40% of Americans say their financial situation has caused them to lose sleep in the past month.  If that’s you, it’s time to make a change.  Take the first step and take control of your finances by signing up for Financial Peace University and start getting better sleep again.  Ready?  Let’s do this!

Scholarships can go a long way in helping students cover college costs, but being successful in the scholarship application process can take some work. In this session you’ll learn to build and work on your own scholarship application plan. You’ll also learn about and try out different scholarship websites, learn how to best use a scholarship information tracker, and learn to avoid some of the challenges of the scholarship process. Students and parents interested in learning about the scholarship process can join Jessica Whittier, College Access Counselor with the Finance Authority of Maine for this 1-hour workshop as we talk about scholarships.

Do you have children who will be looking at college in the next few years or might you be thinking of returning to school yourself? Now is a great time to start thinking about the college financial aid process and ways to boost college savings. The earlier you start, the more confident and relaxed you will feel when it is time to apply for financial aid. Join Jessica Whittier, College Access Counselor with the Finance Authority of Maine for this 1-hour workshop as we talk all things paying for college.

Take control of your financial future with this 6-week course covering the essentials of money management.  You'll explore key topics including the nature of money, financial planning, budgeting, saving and investing, managing debt and credit and estate planning.  Whether you're looking to build better habits or plan for long-term goals, this class will give you the tools and confidence to make smarter financial decisions.

Instructor:  Gerod Bonhoff

Class Date:  Thursday, March 6 - April 10, 2025.

Time:  5:30 - 7 p.m.

Class Fee: $45

There are many different facets to the student loan program that can be powerful in helping you achieve your financial goals but also can be confusing. If you are struggling with your payments, did you know there are several income-based repayment plans as well as deferment or forbearance? Did you know you could get .25% off your interest rate if you sign up for auto-debit on your federal loans? Do you know you can work towards loan forgiveness now if you work for a non-profit, government or tribal agency? Whether you have recently graduated from college or have been repaying your student loans for a long time, join us to learn how to best manage your student loan repayment.

So, you’re on a budget, managing a bank account, and wondering about the next steps in your financial journey. In Adulting 102, we will look at the differences between saving and investing, and if you are ready to invest, how to get started. Other topics will include protecting your assets (insurance), advanced budgeting, and understanding the role economics plays in our financial life.  Join Steve Kautz, Financial Education Programs Specialist from the Finance Authority of Maine for this 1-hour virtual workshop as you take the next steps into adulting.

Joining us – College Savings Superstar Alfond Foundation member, Caroline Palmatier  

Maine families have access to two valuable programs to assist with saving and paying for education after high school: the $500 Alfond Grant and Maine’s College Savings program. While these initiatives offer great benefits, understanding each of their features can sometimes be challenging. Whether you’re a parent, guardian, or student, this session will provide you with information to make the most of these valuable resources. Join us to improve your understanding and take steps towards a successful educational future!