Building for a Secure Future

Pictured above: CDL students, coaches, and program helpers in a group photo for the end of their workshop.

Building Financial Habits for a Secure Future: Reflections from Our Workshop

Over the past eight weeks, participants in our Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) program have engaged in deep discussions about money management, budgeting, savings, and long-term financial planning during our Financial Coaching Workshops. Facilitated by financial coaching staff, Latyran Adams and Alpha Kisusi, the workshops provided an opportunity to not only learn practical financial skills but also connect these habits to personal values and long-term goals.

Going beyond personal habits, the group model of these sessions encourage participants to share these skills with peers and family members outside of the program. Equipped with new skills, the class shared how they want to keep in touch and continue to support each other as they take their next steps.

Engaging Conversations and Key Takeaways

Many participants found budgeting to be one of the most impactful topics. At first, none identified having a written budget, but by the end of the program, many saw the value in tracking their income and expenses. Regardless of the method, the key takeaway was that financial awareness leads to better decision-making.

One of the most helpful discussions centered around the concept of “saving for a rainy day.” Participants shared personal experiences that highlighted the importance of an emergency fund. “If you got family and kids, it’s all about medical things happening unexpectedly,” one participant shared. “If I get sick and have to take off work, I need money to be able to do that, not wondering where I can get it from. It’s good to always be prepared. Anything is better than nothing.”

Others viewed savings as a way to invest in their families, take vacations, or prepare for major life events. “Saving for a rainy day doesn’t mean you have to have this big financial pot overnight. It’s a gradual process,” Latyran Adams, one of the leaders for this program, added. “As long as you’re starting, even if it’s just $25 a month, you’re building momentum.”

Real-World Applications and Financial Growth

Beyond budgeting and savings, the workshop covered topics like strategies to reduce debt, credit management, and financial goal setting. Many participants reflected on their spending habits, realizing that small, impulsive purchases added up over time. One individual noted, “Let’s say I buy a video game for $70-$80… then an automated bill comes…for like $300, and then, I just, I’m in shock. If I would have just budgeted myself.”

The workshop also highlighted the importance of financial planning as a form of self-care. Having weekly or monthly budgeting sessions with family members was suggested to promote financial wellness while maintaining a strong household structure. Some participants discussed the benefits of engaging their children in financial conversations, teaching them money values from an early age. One participant discussed the importance of teaching your children how to budget. “You guys can pick one box of snacks or something together that you guys can agree on. That’ll be what we can cover, you know. And so just telling them about things and how it works.”

Looking to the Future

As the financial workshop concludes, participants are encouraged to apply the financial skills they’ve learned to their careers. Whether budgeting, saving, or planning for long-term goals, these habits will be crucial in creating a financially stable future.

One participant reflected on their personal goals: “My goal is to get a CDL license… and get married and in a house again.” To wrap up the session, one of the coaches emphasized the importance of learning from peers: “You don’t have to make every mistake yourself. You can learn from other people’s experiences, and that’s the best way to move forward.”

Next Steps To Get Involved

If you are interested in experiencing a financial workshop, join online on April 10th for our “Credit Basics Workshop” where you will learn how to navigate your credit.

To register for any financial workshops, participants must complete a form and will receive a link to join. Minnesota residents can attend, and Twin Cities Metro residents are eligible for additional individual coaching. Participants who attend fully may receive a $25 gift card.

Employment & financial coaching staff are on your side as you go through program and take next steps into work.

For more information, contact Latyran Adams.

Our Summer AMR Program is also open for enrollment:

• Explore construction careers and become Apprentice and Manufacturing Ready.
• To register, please fill out the KOM Career Trainings Interest Form online.
• More info to come soon on our program page!