Written by SarahJoy Chaples North Central/Downeast Workforce Development Specialist It’s spring and baseball season is well under way. Admittedly, I am not a baseball fan, but as a kid, I swung the bat a few times. Pretty much the only thing I remember is someone yelling, “Keep your eye on the ball.” When I’d close my eyes and swing, it was pretty much a guaranteed miss, but I actually …
Written by Laurie McDonnell (Workforce Specialist, Southern Region) These two powerful words, dare greatly, were uttered many years ago by Theodore Roosevelt in his, “Citizenship in a Republic” speech on April 23rd, 1910. They were reinvigorated recently by research professor and author, Brene Brown, when she wrote a book with those words as its title. As someone who has taught Building Confidence classes for years, I find these words …
Q. How did you learn about New Ventures Maine? I learned about New Ventures Maine through the Boothbay Region Community Navigator. I met with the Community Navigator staff about a year ago because I was struggling financially and I wanted to learn how better to manage my money, as well as find ways in which I could save money for purchasing a home. I was given a …
Written by Janet Smith (Regional Manager, Western Region) CA$H Maine is one of over 12,000 Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) programs across the country that the IRS relies on to help people file their taxes for free. In 2016, CA$H Maine’s IRS certified volunteers helped over 5,000 Maine people qualify for and keep 100% of their refunds. This adds up to over $6,000,000 that people received without worrying about …
The Urban Dictionary defines the North Star as “something that is constant and dependable in an ever-changing world.” What if we considered the holidays our financial North Star? Consider the values that guide spending at holiday time: A desire to be generous. To live joyfully within your means. A commitment to shopping with intention. Seeking opportunities to be creative: homemade gifts given from the heart! Enjoying free resources in your …
Do you want to work towards your money goals, but can’t find room in your budget? Do you make ends meet from month to month, but scramble when seasonal bills come due? Do you want to rein in your spending habits, but have a hard time not spending money when you have it in hand? Here’s how you can give your financial goals more power – by hiding …
Have you been thinking about finishing your college degree? Going back to school can be hard. It can mean balancing work, family, school, and homework. Even with these challenges, it is worth it. Click here to read more. 1-in-5 Mainers over age 24 have college credits but have not earned a degree. If the cost of tuition is holding you back, there are resources available to help you …
Farmers markets provide agricultural education, healthy food, and money spent at farmers markets stays in the local economy. Farmers selling locally create jobs and draw customers to area businesses, making this growing trend a win-win for communities. Everyone is welcome! You don’t have to be a “foodie” to enjoy the nutritious selection at the farmers’ market. Many people come primarily to meet the farmers who grow their food, and …
Sometimes the hardest hurdle to overcome in facing your finances, searching for a job, or starting your business is the fear of NO. Why are you nervous about negotiating money? What if you don’t get what you want? Why are you hesitant to submit your resume and follow up with a potential employer? What if you don’t get picked for an interview? Why are you insecure about pitching your …
Accounts are now available! With Maine Family Development Accounts, you can save towards first-time homeownership, small business development, or your own education (i.e. associate degree, bachelor’s degree, certificate program, or coursework that will improve your earning potential). Here’s how it works: You save up to $1000 in your Family Development Account, and your savings get matched 4:1 (up to $4000). You can save over as short a time as …