April is Pennsylvania Financial Education Month

Did you know that Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell has proclaimed April to be "Financial Education Month"?

"Although Pennsylvania's unemployment rate remains below the national average and the economy continues to show signs of recovery, there are still Pennsylvania families that are struggling as a result of economic forces beyond their control," Governor Rendell said. "At a time when every penny counts, the ability to make informed financial decisions is more valuable than ever."

Does this make you think how you should be a little more financially responsible?  I know it makes me think. 

It makes me think about how many times I have taken out my credit card to pay for this or to pay for that.

Here's a perfect example I'd love to share, it makes me laugh every time I think about it.

My 8 year old has been playing ice hockey for 3 years now.  Let me just tell you, what an expensive sport!!  But a great sport.  It takes a lot of time and dedication for an 8 year old to play hockey. 

But, does his mom and dad really need to pay for ALL THOSE extra Penguins clinics just so her son can meet some players, does an 8 year old REALLY need to play on travel teams and spend weekends in Detroit,  New York and Toronto, Canada?  My goodness..........a bunch of us hockey moms were just laughing at ourselves.  We bleed ourselves dry just to give our 8 year olds these experiences.  We all know that none of our children will grow up to be Sidney Crosbys, but we still do it. 

All of these little extras we give to our children and give to ourselves is such a big part of society today.  We all need to keep up with the Jones' so to speak.
It can actually be quiet exhausting when you think about it. 

So, just for this month - sit and think, I mean "really" think about being a little more financially responsible.  We could probably all learn a little more about personal financial management to help us enjoy a more secure future.

Check out http://www.moneysbestfriend.com/  - this website is just for Pennsylvanians.  On this site you can find resources to help deepen your understanding of financial issues, deal with major milestones in life, and connect with state and local services to help you make the most of your hard earned money.  Check out the different workshops offered in the Pennsylvania areas as well.


Good Luck and Happy Financial Education Month!