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Another Inspiring Season of Project Money Comes to an End
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Money Management
Wow, season 16 of Project Money has already wrapped up – time really does fly when you’re making smart money moves! Our four teams spent seven months dedicated to improving their financial lives, through building savings, paying down debt and establishing better money habits. Throughout the course of all 16 Project Money seasons, participants have reduced debt by nearly $635,663 and saved over $657,257! This year’s participants took some time to reflect on their journey. Catch up on their key insights and takeaways – you might feel inspired to make a change yourself!
Je’Lisa and Cory – Our Season 16 Winner!
Let’s give it up for Je’Lisa and Cory, who will be taking home lasting financial lessons and the $10,000 grand prize! These two entered Project Money wanting to show their kids and community that you shouldn’t be ashamed to ask for help. They showed up week after week, not only committed to establishing better habits, but also having fun while doing it!
Here’s how Project Money has impacted life for Je’Lisa and Cory: “We talk openly about finances now. We’ve also gotten better at planning for bigger ticket items, such as trips. It has put us in a better position to achieve our long-term dream of owning a home. The weight has been lifted off our shoulders.”
Their “aha” moment: “The impact of interest rates on credit cards. And also reviewing our credit card statements to know how much interest we were paying for each card.”
What’s on the horizon for Je’Lisa and Cory? “We will be saving for a HOME! And we’ll continue to educate others about the importance of financial literacy, hopefully mentoring youth in the process. And of course, more financial stability for us and making good decisions with our money.”
Yuly
Yuly had a clear vision for what she was hoping to gain from Project Money – get back on her feet and have enough money to enjoy things she loves, like visiting her family in Colombia. Throughout her journey, Yuly stayed diligent in budgeting, so she could accurately analyze her past spending and plan for what’s to come.
Here’s how Project Money has impacted Yuly’s life: “While I don’t have to regularly support a family, I’m now able to help my family more when they have financial emergencies.”
Her “aha” moment: “When I was able to find other sources of income based on the clear and accurate budget I created.”
So, what’s next for Yuly? “I hope to be debt free, with a healthy savings account and emergency fund, and enough money in my checking account to cover three to six months of expenses.”
Britt and Matt
Britt and Matt never lost sight of their “why” during Project Money – creating a bright, successful future for their son Oliver. During the program, they broke down barriers in their relationship that allowed them to discuss finances freely and often, helping them align on goals and habits.
Here’s how Project Money has impacted their family: “We are trying to review before we buy anything. We saw a great deal shopping the other day, grabbed it, walked a few steps and looked at each other. We asked ourselves if we really needed that item and both agreed we didn’t, so we put it back. It has definitely made us enjoy staying at home more and finding alternative, less expensive ideas.”
Their “aha” moment: “Seeing how much debt we had and how it truly controlled our lives. We realized we are the ones hurting our finances, and if we don’t change, we will never own a house or travel the world.”
What’s next for Britt and Matt? “We’re going to keep paying down debt and hopefully have a house in one to two years.”
Carisa
Carisa started her Project Money journey knowing finances make up a big part of her overall wellness – and it was time to go from getting by to feeling in control. Resilience was the name of Carisa’s game, overcoming many obstacles throughout her time in the program, but she knew lasting habits don’t happen overnight and stayed the course.
Here’s how Project Money has impacted life for her and her daughter: “This experience has impacted and increased our conversations about money and planning for the future. My daughter is actively mindful about her money and discusses her purchases.”
Her “aha” moment: “Honestly, finances are doable, but the taboo nature of conversation about financial wellness may inhibit growth. We should be able to be honest about our finances without shame or guilt.”
Wondering what’s next for Carisa? “I’m going to work towards graduating and opening a business. I plan to take what I’ve learned to establish even more financial stability and continue to live within my budget.”
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* The Wisconsin's #1 Mortgage Lender designation is based on the number of loans in 2023, gathered from the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act data compiled annually by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. The results of the data were obtained through the