Maia: From the ground up
Why did you come to the Financial Empowerment Center?
When I found out about this opportunity through an email from the City of Sacramento, I was actually at a very low point in my financial life. I’m still working my way up, but I am so much better than I was just a little bit ago when I initially reached out. My partner and I had to move to a cheaper more rundown apartment because I couldn’t afford my part of the rent in the nicer place, and I was working at a restaurant earning minimum wage!
What financial achievements have you made since coming to the FEC?
I got a new job in sales that I’m really enjoying! I also have been strategizing a savings plan now that I have more income. And I am way better at keeping track of my finances with my online banking!
Why and how has the FEC made a difference in your financial future and overall life? What has working with a financial coach done to help you, your family, etc.? What would you say to a friend or family member who was curious about how the FEC could help them?
It is very humbling being so financially challenged. It’s also scary! To not be in it alone is game changing. I really appreciated the straightforward, calm, and logical approach that my coach brings to our sessions. He’s totally non-judgmental and pragmatic about how to take a step at a time and make headway out of the problem and into the solution! It was wonderful to have my partner in one of the sessions. She is great with money, and I loved having that visibility and support and openness to her being on there while we spoke about our situation as a couple, and my situation personally. This increased both of our confidence in my own financial situation and I’m very grateful to the entire organization and the City of Sacramento for making this difficult time a bit easier and helping my mindset as well!
Do you plan to continue working with your financial coach to achieve specific goals? What goals? How can the FEC help you achieve these goals?
Yes, I do plan on continuing to get the support, because as long as it’s available, it seems like a wonderful resource to take advantage of! I am more motivated to really get clear about my financial goals now that I have more earnings to play with. I’ve already covered four different savings goals with my coach, and there are tangible action steps that I need to take in order to help with my goals. The steps are clear and do-able! So I feel really motivated and excited about money again.