Workplace Financial Education: America Saves Week

January 18, 2011

America Saves Week 2011 is scheduled for February 20 to the 27th.   What have you planned to encourage your employees to take financial action through saving, debt reduction, and wealth building?

The American Savings Education Council (ASEC) first piloted America Saves Week in 2007, with the goals of:

  • Raising the profile of the savings issue and the need to save,
  • Helping and encouraging the public to assess their own savings, and
  • Providing concrete opportunities to save.

Last year, over 1,800 organizations participated.  I took part by hosting an “Ask-A-Planner” Forum that offers employees the opportunity to ask any financial question about any financial topic during a one hour group meeting held on-site at the workplace of one of our financial education clients.  This year, I will be hosting a fun, interactive game we call Money Madness for that same employer.  Since I am a die-hard fan of Jeopardy, this is one of my favorite sessions, because our Money Madness game lets me mimic Alex Trebek, but features financial topics.  Attendees compete in a team setting and win prizes, including gift cards and even $2 bills!

Some other ideas to get involved with America Saves Week include:

  • Sponsor a Financial Wellness Fair and invite your local bank or credit union, your 401(k) plan provider, and your nearest Consumer Credit Counseling Service to host a booth.
  • Schedule a Retirement Readiness Workshop for your employees.
  • Communicate America Saves Week through payroll stuffers and email blasts.
  • Host on-site 1 x 1 Financial Coaching Sessions for your employees.

Mark your calendars now, and get creative so that you can raise awareness within your workplace on the importance of financial wellness.