Financial fitness roadshow coming to Luke

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Stephen Delgado
  • 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  Many television news reports and numerous magazines are dominated by a plethora of financial news -- most of it dismal. This is the age of the shrinking dollar. 

Financial institutions that were thought to be safe have collapsed and recently Congress passed a massive bailout package. These developments have caused a lot of jitters among people who have a variety of retirement plans, or who own a home. 

How financially fit are you? 

The Luke Air Force Base community will have an opportunity to have their financial questions answered and get professional advice, as the base has been selected to host a two-day Defense Department Financial Fitness Roadshow to be held Nov. 14 and 15. 

The opening day will feature a host of national experts discussing credit, investments and building financial wealth and stability. The highlight of this day will be the keynote presentation from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. by Larry Winget, host of the popular television show Big Spender and known as the pitbull of personal development. He is also a nationally syndicated radio personality. 

Saturday will be dedicated to addressing issues related to housing in an effort to educate homeowners on available options and strategies to cope with the uncertain housing market. There are presentations and individual assistance focused on homeowners impacted by the uncertainty of the current housing market. 

Counselors from the Housing and Urban Development Department, Military OneSource, Consumer Credit Counseling and other professionals will be available to work individually with homeowners to address specific concerns. 

More than that, Saturday will offer a youth financial fitness series, which will provide activities for children, including entertainment and interactive financial programs geared for younger and older children. 

"This event has been specifically tailored to the needs of the Luke community," said Deborah Iverson, 56th Mission Support Squadron Airman and Family Readiness flight chief. "The roadshow reaches far beyond the basics, bringing together some of the best national experts to discuss financial issues that face Airmen and their families. 

Motivational presentations by leaders in the field will provide overviews and strategies to address a full range of financial topics including identity theft protection, credit repair and investing in an uncertain economy." 

What is so special about this roadshow is that there is something for everyone. 

"This one-stop shop of financial experts includes an exhibitor's hall and financial counselors can provide individualized help with specific financial or credit issues," Ms. Iverson said. "The second day of the event addresses the needs of families who are concerned about escalating mortgage payments and falling home values. Attendees will receive comprehensive information on resources to help homeowners, accompanied by personal appointments with housing counselors who can review settlement statements and negotiate with lenders." 

Childcare for infants and toddlers will be available on a limited basis, but advanced registration is required. Preregistration is also required for all events. For more information or to preregister, call the Airman and Family Readiness Center at (623) 856-6550.