Meet the season 12 Teams
Sarah
Savings Increase: $5,760 Debt Reduction: $6,258
For the past eight months, Sarah has been committed to reinventing her relationship with money. And while it wasn’t easy, she’s confident she’s laid the foundation for a strong financial future. Steps like paying off her car, increasing her retirement contributions and cutting back on extra spending have helped her build confidence in her ability to handle anything life throws at her. Looking forward, Sarah is excited to keep building her savings, explore buying a home and eliminate all her debt. She even wants to volunteer to help others improve their own financial wellness. Keep making us proud, Sarah!
Her advice for owning your finances:
- Build an emergency savings! You never know when you’ll need it most – but when that time comes, you’ll be glad you did.
- Pay yourself first. Moving money from your checking straight to your savings means you’ll spend that money with purpose.
- Make a budget. If you don’t, you won’t be able to work toward tangible goals.
- It’s NEVER too late to start! Even taking small steps now can make a huge difference in your future.
Sarah's Journey
Follow along to see their progress.
Dustin & Scott
Savings Increase: $27,558 Debt Reduction: $9,762
Congratulations, Dustin and Scott, on winning season 12 of Project Money – and the $10,000 grand prize! At the beginning of the program, Dustin and Scott set out to establish a solid financial plan and improve their communication so they could pay off debt and their mortgage. Today, they’re proud to say they’re both equally engaged in their finances and finding comfort in their newly developed habits. As they look to the future, Dustin and Scott are eager to build on their savings momentum while completely paying off their mortgage and student loans. Congratulations, you two!
Their advice for owning your finances:
- Schedule automatic payments and transfers to make recurring bills easier.
- Set a budget and create realistic goals – then follow up on them to make sure you’re on track.
- Step out of your comfort zone to talk honestly about your financial life – then do the work!
- Set up several savings accounts and name each one – then budget for each of them monthly.
Dustin and Scott's Journey
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Idah
Savings Increase: $8,547 Debt Reduction: $8,250
Idah came into Project Money committed to finding a balance between her personal expenses and financial support for her family in Zimbabwe. By reprioritizing her spending and focusing on saving, she’s been able to reduce the stress she feels about money issues. This balance has allowed her to focus more on personal goals for the future, like buying a house. Always a giver, Idah is also proud to have shared what she has learned with family and friends while mentoring others with their own finances. Way to pay it forward, Idah!
Her advice for owning your finances:
- Set up automatic paycheck deposits – this reduces temptation to spend outside your budget!
- Consolidate your debt. Getting it all in one place helps make it feel manageable.
- Find an accountability partner to help keep you on track along the way.
- Talk to a Summit Financial Advisor.
Idah's Journey
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Betsy & Noah
Savings Increase: $6,887 Debt Reduction: $16,590
When they started their Project Money journey, Betsy and Noah were hoping to finally get some structure in their family’s financial life so they could reduce their debt – and their stress. The couple is now proud to say they’ve turned the page to focus on their savings for the first time! They’ve learned how much a solid financial plan can cut out excess spending and break the cycle of debt, allowing them to focus on planning for the things that are most important. Betsy and Noah look forward to building their ever-growing savings, making some home improvements and supporting their kids’ educational journeys. Keep up the great work!
Their advice for owning your finances:
- Create separate budgets for bills vs. spending – and stick to them.
- Take the time to talk and budget on a regular basis.
- Keep your savings organized in “buckets” and keep them aligned with your goals as they change.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help! Having extra support and accountability helps build healthy habits.
Betsy and Noah's Journey
Follow along to see their progress.