Managing money is a part of everyday life, whether you’re sitting down to pay bills, deciding if you should go out to eat or comparing gas prices at stations around town. But good money management skills do not necessarily come naturally, let Goodwill NCW and Financial Wellness Services help with navigating your financial future. Often, it is helpful to get advice, coaching and insights as you navigate complex life situations that pop up, a wide variety of financial products that are available and those everyday decisions that can make or break the bank.

We understand that financial wellness is a journey, and we want you to know that you are not alone. Goodwill NCW Financial Wellness Services can support you in achieving your goals and dreams.

Take a moment to consider these facts:

• Emergency Savings: A 2024 survey indicates that about 45% of Americans would struggle to cover an unexpected $400 expense without borrowing or selling something. (Source: Federal Reserve Report on Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households)
• Retirement Savings: As of 2024, approximately 30% of non-retired adults have no retirement savings, and many who do are significantly underfunded based on what they will likely need. (Source: Federal Reserve’s Survey of Consumer Finances)
• Debt vs. Savings: Household debt has continued to rise, with high levels of credit card debt and student loans impacting Americans’ ability to save. In 2024, the total household national debt stands at over $17 trillion. (Source: New York Federal Reserve’s Household Debt and Credit Report)
• Housing Costs: Approximately 45% of renters and 25% of homeowners with a mortgage are considered cost-burdened, meaning they spend more than 30% of their income on housing costs and utilities. For some renters, this percentage is even higher, reflecting a significant affordability challenge in many markets. (Sources: U.S. Census Bureau – Housing Data and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – American Community Survey)

Can you relate to these facts at all? If the answer is yes, you might be interested in brushing up on something called “financial literacy,” and Goodwill Financial Wellness Services can help. According to the National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE), financial literacy plays a significant role in savings behavior. Many Americans lack knowledge about budgeting, saving, and investing, which can impact their financial stability and savings habits.  

This is a great time to boost your financial literacy and put together your financial goals for the year. Finances can trigger negative emotions for some people, but that does not have to be the case.

“Change your perspective, empower yourself with financial literacy and know you have control over where our money goes,” Ivy Casarez, Goodwill NCW Financial Counselor advises. “Avoid comparing yourself or situations to others. Everyone has their own journey. Give yourself some grace to move forward from any mistakes you may have made in the past; instead, look at those as opportunities to grow.”

Not sure where to start? Believe in yourself and take action today. Schedule an appointment with Goodwill NCW Financial Wellness Services by calling 920-886-1000 or 800-366-8161 or visit Financial Wellness Services. We offer in-person, virtual or phone appointments. Our services are tailored to your unique situation. Our financial counselors can help you put together a spending plan, review your credit report, navigate student loans, offer resources to manage your debt, housing resources and deal with unexpected situations in life.

Today is the day to create a new financial future for yourself and your family connect with Goodwill NCW and Financial Wellness Services help with navigating your financial future. We look forward to meeting with you!