Health and Well Being Programs

Financial Health

Building financial capability and security over the life course strengthens Iowa families, however low financial literacy, coupled with stagnant incomes and rising living costs create economic pressures that erode financial security. Iowans scored on average just 60% on a national financial literacy test. Many rural Iowans struggle to find well-paying jobs and to access services. Targeted and timely Extension financial education programs build the knowledge and skills needed in today’s complex financial markets.

A Place of Your Own: Online Homebuyer Education Course

Increase understanding and knowledge about the home ownership process, including how to prepare financially to secure a home loan.

Finances of Caregiving

Being a family caregiver comes with many responsibilities, including dealing with financial and legal issues, and balancing the needs of all involved. Most people wait until there is a crisis to plan for long-term care. It is important to plan ahead while the care receiver still has the capacity to sign legal documents. It is important to involve all members of the family so that the care receiver’s wishes are clearly understood. The Finances of Caregiving program is designed to help individuals find, collect and understand the information needed to make long-term care decisions, whether it is for a loved one or for oneself. When completed, participants will have a binder with all the information needed to protect their own retirement while meeting the long-term care needs of a loved one; whether that is an aging parent, an adult child with special needs or a failing spouse.

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)

Low- and moderate-income taxpayers electronically file tax returns (at no charge) to receive Earned Income Tax and other tax credits. Refunds are spent in the local community and improve financial wellbeing of low to moderate income wage earners.

What About Me? My Wellbeing

Enhance adult individual wellbeing and quality of life in ways that are personally meaningful to participants.

Your Money, Your Future: Making Ends Meet

Increase skills and knowledge in financial management. Develop and make progress towards financial goals.

Your Money, Your Goals

Social service providers and other professionals will increase confidence to integrate financial empowerment into work with limited resource individuals, improve ability to access financial empowerment tools, unbiased information, and to make referrals to community resources; increase ability to help clients manage their financial goals and challenges, and increase community support for people with financial challenges.