In the News

Navigate Finances With United Way's Plan
Trained Volunteers Help With Long-Term Counseling, Credit Repair

Reported By Marc Stewart

POSTED: 3:58 pm CDT September 17, 2009
UPDATED: 5:58 pm CDT September 17, 2009

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- With an unstable economy, everyone is looking to save, even if it's just a little.

"I try to look for ways to cut back any way I can, because, you know, it is a recession," said Charlie Scales.

Sometimes saving isn't an option, and you may drift into trouble. But by dialing 211, you may be able to get some help for free.

My Money Plan is a chance to meet with a trained volunteer who can help navigate through your finances.

"They'll, I think, pretty much sit down anywhere that's most convenient for you," said Carole King of United Way of Metropolitan Nashville. "We have a lot of different partners. There are about 35 different locations around the city."

The volunteers will help you set goals and create a plan of action. They can also refer you to other organizations that can help you with things such as long-term counseling and credit repair.

"They'll sit down with you and go over your budget, if you've had any changes, like you've lost your job, reduced income, changed in marital status or even a new baby on the way, that all brings changes to your expenses, and they'll help you revise your budget and stretch it to meet your current situation," King said.

It's a program that even the savviest of consumers is willing to try.

"I would take constructive criticism; you know what I'm saying? I would," Scales said.

According to the United Way, the 211 phone help line has seen a 56 percent increase in calls for financial assistance.

The Money Plan program is free and confidential.

Photo, video and article by WSMV Channel 4 News. ::Link:: to story at wsmv.com.