Written by Chris Davis, Western Region Workforce Specialist Many people have money sitting in their savings account or stashed in their freezer. This can be a good thing until you compare it to how much you would earn by investing a part of it each month. If fear or a lack of know-how keeps you from making the step towards investing, here is some info to help you move forward. …
Written by Erica Quin-Easter, Midcoast Regional Manager and Workforce Specialist We all have financial goals and dreams. Sometimes, we struggle to put our goals into action while living paycheck to paycheck. Regardless of our income levels, our spending tends to rise and fall in proportion to the money we have available. It can be frustrating to feel like you’re stuck with no savings even when your financial situation …
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 …
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 …
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 …
If life got in your way of completing college, you’re not alone. An estimated 230,000 adults in Maine have some college credits but couldn’t complete their degree because of family obligations, financial capacity, or other challenges. Even if college feels out of reach in your budget, don’t be afraid to try it out. By using scholarships, federal education grants, matched savings, and other resources, many students can leave college …
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 …
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 …