Anchor House would like to thank volunteers from Bank of America’s Employee Network, Black Professionals Group New Jersey (BPG NJ), for spending over a year planning and hosting a series of financial literacy workshops with young adults in our programs.
Life skills education is an integral part of Anchor House’s programs, and financial literacy plays a crucial role in helping our young people secure permanent housing. We were thrilled to have Bank of America volunteers share their financial expertise with our youth. What was particularly meaningful was the time and effort the volunteers put into planning sessions that were relevant to our young people, soliciting their ideas for future topics, and creating a supportive environment where they felt comfortable asking questions.
“We celebrate Anchor House for providing the space and opportunity to connect with their residents — individuals eager to listen, learn, and embrace better money habits,” said Heather Covington Woods, a BPG Community Outreach Leader.
Last year, Bank of America approached Anchor House to host their Better Money Habits financial literacy seminars. Topics to date have included building credit, saving, homeownership, and investments. Volunteers tailored the sessions to meet the needs of the youth, encouraging participants to bring their own financial goals so the sessions could be personalized.
“For many of our youth, especially those who have experienced homelessness, a goal like owning a home can seem out of reach,” explained Kim McNear, Anchor House Executive Director. “Our staff encourages them daily and helps them work toward their goals like having a bank account, saving for a car and paying rent. These amazing volunteers from Bank of America reinforced that it is possible and gave them tools to help make their dreams a reality.”
Anchor House was also proud to be named one of two 2023 Bank of America Neighborhood Builders awardees in New Jersey. This two-year award provides flexible general operating support—needed now more than ever—as well as leadership training opportunities.
This past October, Kim McNear and staff member Jamie Erkoboni attended Bank of America’s Neighborhood Builders Leadership Program in Charlotte, North Carolina, celebrating the program’s 20th anniversary. The program, one of the nation’s largest philanthropic investments in nonprofit leadership development, included panel discussions with experts in philanthropy and leadership, as well as extensive networking opportunities. Photos are below. Upon returning, Jamie hosted Lunch and Learn sessions to share learnings from the program with staff.
Thank you, Bank of America, for your continued partnership and support!
