Financial workshops aim to assist Team Holloman members

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Veronica Stamps
  • 49th Wing Public Affairs
HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M --  The Airman and Family Readiness Center offers many free financial workshops for military members and their families who are looking for a better way to manage their money and bump their credit score without having to break their piggy bank.

The classes, which are offered every month, are designed to give Active Duty members advice on how to increase their credit score by consolidating their debt and creating an expense sheet that will show them how they can start setting aside a few extra dollars toward their savings.

"The Airman and Family Readiness Center offers 10 to 12 workshops every month including Home Buying, Home Selling, Financial Management, Bundles for Babies, and investment classes," said Bob Berger, A&FRC director. "We also assist folks with budget preparation, debt and credit management, retirement planning and answer tax questions among other things. The Air Force Aid Society is also available to help eligible individuals with emergency financial assistance. "

One of the classes offered at the A&FRC, the Fair Isaac Corporation credit report class, shows Airmen and their spouses where they stand on the financial line of readiness by giving each participant a copy of their credit report and FICO score, which is a calculated average credit score from the three major credit bureaus.

"We have set aside three computers for this purpose, which has met the demand," Berger said. "We also offer to meet with individuals one-on-one, if they desire to go over their credit report."

Although, the opportunity to receive the free credit report and FICO score is not available to retirees or civil service personnel, they are eligible to attend the classes and receive financial counseling.

Joe Wilson, A&FRC community readiness consultant, said getting a personal consultation with a financial specialist can improve the chances of having a little back-up money needed for those unexpected events or occasions.

"Most of us enjoy the holiday season. However, it can be a financially stressful time," said Wilson. "We can help by providing a free financial assessment, your FICO score and credit report. One of our primary roles is to help folks become financially stable."

To see a full list of classes offered by the A&FRC during the month of December, visit the official Holloman website at www.holloman.af.mil and click on the more information link under the Holloman Briefs tab.

The FICO credit score workshops will be offered Dec. 6, 13, and 14 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. and Dec. 15 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

To register for one of the free financial workshops, contact the Airman and Family Readiness Center at (575) 572-7754.