• about
• core competencies
• curricula matrix
• evaluative instruments
• key resources

United Way of Massachusetts Bay and Merrimack Valley, in partnership with Bank of America, is working to remove the obstacles that keep many hardworking families from entering the economic mainstream. Along with a growing network of community-based organizations, we are responding to this regional crisis by focusing on the development of quality financial education programs.

A core financial education increases a learner’s ability to make informed and effective decisions regarding the use and management of money, and is critical to building financial stability. In 2006, United Way and Bank of America conducted a survey of local agencies that run financial education programs for adults. The survey reveals the field’s scope of offerings, and identifies needs and opportunities. A copy of the survey is available here.

This Toolkit is designed to meet the need for quality and consistency in financial education, and to give those working in the field a means to explore curricula, core competencies, measurement tools, and key resources. Instructor training and volunteer opportunities for financial professionals will supplement this Toolkit.

By supporting quality financial education opportunities, United Way and Bank of America are working to increase the financial stability of Massachusetts’ low-income families, as well as the quality of life in our neighborhoods.