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SCHOOL TO PRISON PIPELINE
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JULIAN LEGGET
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CRYSTAL EVANS REVEALS HER MISSION TO END POVERTY
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Money Talks
RISING ABOVE POVERTY FINANCIAL LITERACY DISCUSSIONS
I must admit walking away from a 13-years of marriage was harder than I could ever imagine. Especially, as a mother of five, starting over was one of the toughest things I've ever had to do. After cosigning for my ex-husband business loans and being overwhelmed with debt and the heartbreak of a failed marriage. The thought of not be able to provide for my children triggered daily anxiety attacks and paralyzing frustration. I was working from check to check, and the money I earned went into one hand and out the other. I had no savings, and I felt like I had no control over my finances. I had to figure out where was my money going, so I began prioritizing my needs and wants. During this time I realized, if I had a better understanding of my spending habits, then I could save and improve my finances health and not worry so much about my children's security. I had to learn how to say the word "no," it took time getting comfortable; but after a while, it rolled off my tongue. My children, on the other hand, began to question me. Especially my youngest son, he would ask "mommy why don't you have any money?" I replied, "I have to pay bills." "What bills, I never see you pay any bills," my son was restless. Now, of course, I gave him a look as if he was crazy and went into a frenzy, yelling "how do you think u have a roof over your head, hot water, electric, cable, and wifi?" I was so frustrated and determined to get out of debt and create residual income. But at that very moment, it came to me, how would my son know what it takes to keep a roof over his head?
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DENISE L. WALTER REALTOR & SERIAL ENTREPRENEUR
Money Talks
RISING ABOVE POVERTY FINANCIAL LITERACY DISCUSSIONS
I've never taught him or any of my children for that matter how I manage household expenses. I couldn't believe that I was so preoccupied with life that I wasn't controlling my finances sufficiently and failed to teach my children the importance of saving and managing their personal finances. Immediately, I called a family meeting to discuss my finances, and my responsibilities astheir primary guardian. I had to explained my gross and net income, all household expenses incurred and when the payments were due. We had so much to learn, and the questions they ask gave each of us a more in-depth perspective and understanding of our expectations of each other. Subsequently, each of my children began to pick up little jobs around the neighborhood, only asking for money to put towards what they need. Things are starting to change for my household, and gradually we’re rising above poverty..
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