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As we move through a season marked by change and uncertainty, one thing remains clear: access to practical, inclusive financial education matters more than ever. In this issue of the FB Top 3, we’re highlighting the people, partnerships, and conversations helping move this work forward. From volunteers stepping up to meet community needs, to timely conversations shaping the future of financial education, to resources designed to support individuals and families right now, this edition reflects what guides our work every day. Showing up. Adapting. Centering the communities we serve.
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1. Tax Season is Coming. Let’s Get Ready Together.
Tax season doesn’t have to be stressful. Join us Tuesday, February 17th for a FREE online Community Drop-In class on Tax Preparation & Planning. This live session will walk you through how to gather the right documents, understand common credits and deductions, and use trusted resources that make filing easier and less overwhelming.
Whether you’re filing for the first time or just want a refresher, this supportive, practical session is open to all and completely free.
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2. Strengthening Skills and Connections Through COS.
In a recent Coordination of Services class for justice-involved youth in Washington State, youth and their parents came together to build practical life skills, learn about community resources, and strengthen their relationships. Seven teens participated alongside their caregivers, engaging actively in discussions and hands-on activities.
Financial Beginnings’ budgeting lesson stood out, earning high marks from both teens and parents. Participants shared that the session helped them think differently about spending, saving, and staying within a budget. Many also noted that attending COS together improved communication and understanding at home.
This COS cohort showed how practical financial education can support positive outcomes for both youth and families.
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3. Moving Financial Education Forward. Even in Uncertain Times.
We were honored to be part of an important conversation hosted by the National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE), which brought together leaders from Equity Now, Inc., FICO, and Financial Beginnings for the webinar “When Uncertainty Breeds Clarity: Reimagining Pathways to Advance Financial Education.”
Held on February 5, the discussion focused on identifying pathways of least disruption to advance effective financial education for all, even amid uncertainty. We appreciated the chance to learn alongside peers, share practical insights, and explore approaches that center equity and impact.
Thank you to NEFE for convening this timely and thoughtful conversation. We look forward to carrying these insights forward and continuing to center the communities we serve. Check out some of their previous webinars and watch this space for this one:
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The CEO’s Corner: Real Talk on Money
Monthly perspective and practical advice from our CEO Ronecca Norvell
President Trump has decided to cap credit card interest rates at 10%. The current average is 23%, so this would be a significant change. But the reactions tell a complicated story.
The Potential Benefits: Research found this cap could save consumers $100 billion ($899/person) per year in reduced interest payments. For families carrying balances, that's real money back in their pockets. With Americans holding a record $1.2 trillion in credit card debt, relief sounds appealing.
The Concerns: Banks warn this could backfire. People with credit scores below 600 would likely lose access to credit cards, an estimated 40 million people. When you can't charge higher rates, the risk may not be worth it for banks, pushing consumers toward potentially worse alternatives like payday loans.
At Financial Beginnings, we know credit access is complicated. Lower rates help people with cards- but what about people who need credit and suddenly can't get it? What do you think? Would a 10% cap help or hurt the communities you serve? 💳
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Michael Neymit and Heather VanRheenen
When our Los Angeles region needs extra hands, Michael Neymit and Heather VanRheenen step up in big ways. Their flexibility, commitment, and community connections have helped ensure classes continue reaching learners when and where they’re needed most.
Michael is a go-to volunteer when last-minute needs arise. He has stepped in multiple times to facilitate classes on short notice, making sure learners never miss an opportunity. He regularly volunteers at the Thousand Oaks Library and supports additional library locations across the region, bringing consistency to every class he leads.
Heather has been instrumental in expanding our reach. She has helped establish new partnerships with nonprofit organizations and connected Financial Beginnings with multiple groups through Calvary Community Church, creating new class opportunities and pathways for learners to access financial education.
We are deeply grateful to Michael and Heather for rising to the moment. Their leadership and generosity embody what makes our volunteer community so powerful.
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