A&FRC prepares for Military Saves Week, Falcon Loan kicks off Mar. 3

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Kevin Wallace
  • 436th AW Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  Financial management classes will take center stage at Dover Air Force Base when the Department of Defense, working with their national non-profit partner, the Consumer Federation of America, kicks off the 2008 Military Saves Week, Feb. 24 through March .

"Military Saves Week 2007 was a success across the Military Services," said David S.C. Chu, Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness. "We know that financial readiness affects military readiness by reducing stress that can distract from the mission."

Evidence suggests nearly one-third of enlisted servicemembers self-report moderate to severe difficulty in paying their bills. Living month-to-month and struggling to pay bills, especially when sudden, unexpected expenses such as car trouble or legal problems arise, is not sound financial management, according to Airman's Roll Call. Poor financial choices, and the stress inflicted on Airmen and families, negatively affects the total-force team.

"(Dover) Airmen are encouraged to visit www.militarysaves.org to pledge their commitment to save," said Jennifer Aubrey, 436th Mission Support Squadron, Airman and Family Readiness Center.

Also, the base has beginner financial management classes and the A&FRC has a wealth of information to educate Airman about managing debt. Airmen are also encouraged to participate in savings plans, especially the Thrift Savings Plan venue which allows money to grow through payroll allotments.

In addition to classes and information, the A&FRC offers one-on-one counseling to help prepare them for financial success. The A&FRC will hold an 'Identity theft' class on Feb. 27 in building 654, room T-1 from 2 to 4 p.m. Also, Team Dover members can schedule one-on-one counseling with Ms. Aubrey by calling 677-6930.

Still, if a member gets in a verifiable bind and needs financial assistance, the Air Force Aid Society recently implemented the Falcon Loan program beginning March 3. The program, which is available through the A&FRC, provides a streamlined process for Air Force personnel to receive an interest-free loan of $500 or less, repayable within three to 10 months or before their service commitment expires.