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Marketplace - Financial Literacy

The Marketplace offers 12-14 week Freedom in Your Finances classes that walk with participants as they grow in their understanding of God as provider and of the importance and means of practicing responsible stewardship. Through financial literacy, money management, goal-setting, budgeting training, and one-on-one meetings with a budget coach, participants move towards financial independence and self-sufficiency.  Child care is provided.

The Freedom in Your Finances classes are offered in three tiers, with a beginner track, an intermediate track, and a refresher course for returning graduates.

Financial Freedom I classes meet from February 18 - May 27, 2010, on Thursdays from 6:00 - 8:00.  Classes are FREE. Limited availability.  Financial Freedom I is a 13-week program that covers a variety of topics related to money management and personal finances. Additionally student members are paired with an individual coach who offers accountability in the first steps toward financial freedom.  Members provide each other with a sense of mutual support in the journey of Christian stewardship.

Financial Freedom II classes meet from April 15 - May 27, 2010, on Thursday from 6:00 - 8:00. Classes cost $10.00. Limited availability. Students need to have completed Financial Freedom I to aprticipate in Financial Freedom II.  

Contact Noele Stith at (616) 456-8593 ext. 227 if you are interested in attending either class or for more information.

In Their Own Words

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“My favorite part of mentoring is that we always learn something new.”

- Maleeka Conley, Mentoring Student

“The mentoring program has helped me to break down the stereotypes that I harbored without even knowing it…”

- Anne Cassard, Mentor

“I choose to be a mentor because I think it’s important that our kids have role models and support…”

- Shayon Smith, Mentor

“Women getting together and accomplishing something is really one of the best parts…”

- Nancy Barnhart, Threads Teacher since 2000

“The Threads project provides students with self esteem. It tells them, ‘You can do something if you put your mind to it.’”

- Erica Millbrook, Threads Project Coordinator

“The best part of coming to Baxter is sewing class. I get to make my creations.”

- Ivory, Threads Student

“Beyond serving obvious physical needs in the community, people know they can count on Baxter…”

- Tammy Beckering, Volunteer

“I know that if I have an emergency, I can just walk through the door, and someone is there to help me.”

- Mrs. Willa Alexander, Adult Clinic Client

“We cherish [our son's] safety and security while we are at work and he is being cared for at Baxter Child Care.”

- Luke and Andrea Robinson, Child Development Center Parents

“Baxter offers their children nurturing care to help them feel safe and secure, and a planned curriculum to engage them in learning.”

- Jennifer Griffith, Kent County Regional 4C

“If I could choose one word to describe this environment, it would be ‘friendly.’”

- Michelle Mitchell, Marketplace Pantry Client

“This has transformed the way I spend money. Now I know that everything under heaven belongs to God.”

- Hazel Lewis, Freedom in Your Finances Class Participant

“What I love most about volunteering at the Marketplace is working with the people. ”

- Amber Hora, Marketplace Volunteer