Women's History Month - Women, Wealth, and Wellbeing
RVCU is committed to providing financial education and empowerment for women and girls throughout our community, and in honor of Women’s History Month, we asked some of RVCU’s #findependent women to share their best financial advice.
The one where she’s financially literate and independent
Financial literacy is the foundation of your relationship with money, and there’s always more to learn! An alarming study done by the U.S. Department of Education shows that 3.8 million adult American women have below-average financial literacy skills.
Do you feel that you have the knowledge to confidently make financial decisions when it comes to personal finances, budgeting, and investing?
"The first step towards financial literacy and independence is meeting with a financial advisor," said RVCU's Branch Manager, Tory Butler. "Working with a financial coach is a great way to take steps towards the future you see for yourself. A coach or advisor can help you plan ahead so you have a greater sense of financial comfort"
When you picture meeting with a financial advisor, do you picture a male? If so, don’t feel bad because the truth is that only 23.6% of all Certified Financial Planners are female. Unfortunately, this can feel intimidating and may even prevent some women from seeking financial planning services and advice.
At RVCU, 85% of our Certified Financial Coaches are female! We're committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive environment for anyone who walks through our doors.
Connect with one of our certified financial coaches by sending us a message in our chat feature during regular business hours, completing our online form, or calling us at (815) 282-0300.
The one where she has excellent credit
Credit scores are designed to represent your credit risk, or the likelihood you’ll pay your bills on time. Scores are typically between 300 and 850. A higher score generally results in more favorable credit terms.
"Credit is important as it allows you to purchase a home or a car. When my husband and I first got married, his father learned we both had credit scores in the 700s. I remember him telling us the importance of maintaining such great scores as it would help us build a life for ourselves” said RVCU Lending Support Manager, Kim.
An easy way to start building credit is to get a secured credit card or a secured loan. For example, Kim had her children take out a loan to “buy” her family’s used cars.
"This was one of the best things I did for my own kids. It has helped them establish credit and allows for good purchasing power in the future."
Click here to learn more about RVCU’s lending and credit options.
The one where she becomes an RVCU member
Ready to make your own history this March? We are here for it! Wherever you are on your financial journey, RVCU is here for you. From establishing credit, to getting out of debt, or developing a budget – we are ready whenever you are, however you would like to meet.
Want to become part of the RVCU family? Learn more about becoming an RVCU member today!