This program is geared towards newcomer immigrants who are learning how to navigate the U.S. financial institutions. Circles meet once a week for 2.5 hours, for 8 consecutive weeks.  During this time, participants receive training on banking in the U.S. and have the opportunity to meet individually, at no cost, with a Financial Coach. The coach supports the participant with building a personal budget through a matched savings program sponsored by Liberty Bank.  Each participant that is able to build and maintain a savings account of $250 over the course of 3- 5 months receives a $250 bonus match from Liberty Bank.  

During the training sessions participants learn about:  

• The benefits of opening and maintaining a bank account 
• Ways to save money  
• How to identify and avoid “false” business practices that may result in financial loss 
• The value of a budget and how to use it to help save money and build wealth  
• Why having good credit matters and steps to establishing good credit 

The learning circles will also discuss topics like how to open a small business, take advantage of community resources to save money and improve ones quality of life, and other topics the participants request. 

Ongoing Financial Coaching: During these individual coaching sessions each participant will review their budget and have the opportunity to discuss in detail, how to save for a business, a child’s college savings or retirement and more.   

 Enrollment Criteria: 

• A United States resident for a minimum of 3 months 
• Have had difficulty maintaining a minimum bank balance requirement OR do not have a bank account  
• Able to save a minimum of $2 a day.   
• Age 18 or older 
• Commit to 2.5 hours of meeting time a week for 8 consecutive weeks.  

 Received upon successful program completion: 

• Hartford Public Library’s Financial Literacy Course Certificate of Completion  
• $250 bonus awarded from Liberty Bank 
• Northstar basic computer certification