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Causes: Financial Counseling, Human Services
Mission: We strive to promote economic success for everyone in the St. Louis region by providing financial education and access to reliable financial products and services. We dream of an equitable community where everyone can conveniently access the resources and knowledge needed to confidently pursue their financial goals. We believe that credit building can be a tool for tackling income inequality and decreasing the racial wealth gap. Our vision is that credit can be a force to bring about financial justice and economic dignity for every St. Louisan.
Results: In just 2023, our clients reduced or eliminated their debt by a total of $579,527, opened a total of 99 healthy financial products, increased their credit score by an average of 58.7 points, and saved a total of $125,775.
Geographic areas served: the greater St. Louis region
Programs: Our organizational vision centers economic justice, ensuring everyone has access to resources and knowledge for financial success. We recognize the US economic systems are complex and often stacked against already marginalized individuals. Through our free, best-in-class financial education services, we help folks build the confidence, knowledge, and skills to navigate these systems and achieve economic security. Our personal finance classes cover crucial topics like credit, budgeting, credit cards, and home buying. We offer credit report reviews that provide folks a ‘soft pull’ copy of their credit report, FICO credit score, and personalized action steps to improve their credit. We believe credit building is a tool for tackling income inequality and the racial wealth gap. Our St. Louis Builds Credit Alliance is building an intentional network of partnerships that can connect clients to trusted resources and products needed at any stage of their financial journey. More in-depth, longer-term support can be found through our financial coaching. Our coaching program provides tailored assistance for individuals, beginning with assessments, goal setting, and creating a customized action plan. Many clients start with developing a personal budget, then advance to credit building or buying an asset. Throughout the process, clients work closely with their coach to establish positive financial habits that help achieve greater economic security.