GROWING & MANAGING PERSONAL ASSETS

Allies, Inc. has two programs that assist people with disabilities increase their financial literacy in order to reduce the economic barriers they encounter. (Click here for Project American Dream) For more information contact Kelly Jiras, Program Development Coordinator, (609) 689-0136 ext. 145, Email: KJiras@alliesnj.org

Success of Saving (SOS) Program

What is the Success Of Saving (SOS) Club?

Success of Saving (SOS) is a financial literacy program that empowers individuals with developmental disabilities economically by teaching them how to budget and save their earned income. The program encourages saving through a combination of interactive coursework, trips to local banks, and supported banking. Individuals enrolled in this program select their own savings goal. Participants may save for a personal computer, a first vacation, school, furniture for their home, vehicle maintenance, a new van or car, a new home, or anything else they may want or need.
Click here to download SOS Club overview
Click here to download SOS Club form

How does this program actually work?

Every month participants will put money earned into their personal savings account. With each $1.00 deposit made, the SOS Program will deposit $1.00 into the participant’s savings account just for being a member of our club. For example, if a participant deposits $500.00 into their account during the course of the program, they will receive $500.00 toward the purchase of their goal as long as they complete the required coursework.

How will participants benefit from this program?

As a member of the SOS Saving Club, participants will take part in financial literacy coursework with your friends and family. These courses are designed to teach the participants how to use a bank, how to create a budget, how to save money, and how to reach individualized, financial goals.

QUOTES FROM PARTICIPANTS:

“I had so much fun at the classes and I learned a lot too. I know how to keep a check register now because all of my questions were answered.” – Sara

“I bought a laptop with the money I saved through the SOS Program with Allies!” – Kim

“Because of the SOS Program, I am depositing money in the bank regularly now and going to McDonald’s less.” – Kelly

“Through the SOS Program, I learned that record keeping is key to having a checking account.” - Jeffrey