Friday, February 18, 2011

North Carolina Saves + AmeriCorps VISTA

North Carolina Saves is a statewide social marketing initiative designed to help individuals and families save and build wealth. It was created by a statewide coalition of nonprofit, corporate and government groups.

In 2010 the IDA & Asset Building Collaborative of North Carolina embarked on a new, three-year AmeriCorps VISTA project. VISTA, which stands for Volunteer In Service To America, is a national anti-poverty program. Here in North Carolina, we have a team of ten VISTAs working around the state to promote North Carolina Saves. 

This year our VISTAs are working on three strategic goals:

Creating new partnerships between financial institutions and agencies that provide financial education and wealth building programs. This will ensure that Savers are paired with safe and appropriate savings products.

Getting the word out about NC Saves and recruiting Savers. We are developing materials and recruiting spokespeople to promote a culture of savings and responsibility in North Carolina

Recruiting Wealth Coaches who will serve as a mentor and guide for NC Savers. These individuals will empower North Carolinians to take control of their financial future.

For example, Debbie Hardy is an AmeriCorps VISTA with the Choanoke Area Development Association. A former chair of the Halifax County School Board, she has used her strong connection to the community to recruit 32 NC Savers, coordinate 3 Wealth Coaches, and work with local financial institutions to promote NC Saves.

For more information, and to become an NC Saver, visit http://www.northcarolinasaves.org/ or email ncsaves@ncidacollaborative.org



By: Zarak Khan
AmeriCorps VISTA*Leader
IDA and Asset Building Collaborative of North Carolina

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