Financial literacy workshop pays off

New skills helped adult learners gain confidence – and one person avoid a potential scam – after attending a free financial literacy workshop in Port Hardy in November.

Partnering with Sacred Wolf Friendship Centre, Mount Waddington Family Literacy Society coordinated a free Money Matters workshop series. The workshops are led by former banking professional Rikki Clarke, current Child and Family Development Worker at Sacred Wolf. 

In the first workshop on November 19, six learners explored two key topics: Spending Plans and Banking Basics.

“Our group walked through creating personal budgets, understanding everyday banking, and recognizing common fraud and phishing scams,” said MWFLS adult literacy coordinator Jeanne James-Hory. “We also dove into real-life examples of secure online banking practices.”

Later in the week, one participant successfully identified a suspicious URL requesting personal information, preventing a potential scam.

“Our new skills paid off,” said Jeanne. “A win for financial literacy!”

Participant feedback:

• “Some of the most important things I’m taking away are how to spot phishing scams and how to get my money in order.”

• “Because of this workshop, I feel more confident about managing my money.”

• “Great presentation! Easy to listen to explanations.”

• “I learned how to save for my granddaughter’s schooling and future.”

• “My favourite thing about this workshop was the depth of conversations and sharing.”

“Participants openly shared their financial struggles, and we had meaningful conversations about ways to navigate those challenges,” said Jeanne. “I’m continually inspired by the strength it takes to manage on such small margins. Many of us have lived through similar circumstances, and it’s a reminder of how important community support truly is.”

Learners were also offered one-to-one post-workshop support to work on any further budgeting or address any banking questions that may come up.

The group also shared a meal together, including homemade soup by Rikki and Jeanne.  

Thank you to Sacred Wolf and Rikki Clarke for supporting this important program!  

Free Money Matters workbooks and online courses from ABC Life Literacy Canada are available at abcmoneymatters.ca.