On July 20, leaders from Blount County join the efforts across East Tennessee to assist individuals in achieving credit scores that will lead to financial sustainability. Financial professionals and organizations that provide credit counseling programs share that achieving a credit score of 720 will set a course to financial wellness. With this in mind, organizations are joining together to note the importance of the score on July 20 or 7/20.
Several non-profit organizations and financial institutions have joined the effort to provide education and resources for those interested in improving their financial wellness. A full schedule of classes and assistance will be offered on July 20, please visit the United Way of Blount County’s website for more information: https://unitedwayblount.org/720financialliteracyday/.
The organizations will be available to provide assistance free of charge to anyone - including small business start-ups, consumers, seniors, individuals re-entering the workforce and those who simply struggle with their finances.
Ed Mitchell, Mayor of Blount County said, “We understand the challenges many people face - especially in the current economy. Because of this, it’s important to know there are resources available. Our community is fortunate to have programs and financial institutions who can assist with a goal of establishing and maintaining a strong credit score. Maryville Mayor Andy White and Alcoa Mayor Clint Abbott and I appreciate these organizations coming together on 7/20 to highlight the services available to our community related to financial health.”
Joshalyn Hundley, Vice President/Community Development Manager from First Horizon noted, “We’re proud to be part of a collaboration of organizations across east Tennessee to provide financial counseling and technical assistance to our community. We know that as we work together, we’re not only building stability for individuals and families but for our entire community. It’s a winning proposition for all of us and we’re excited to mark July 20 as the date that notes our continued commitment.”
Habitat for Humanity Executive Director Kathy Jackson said, “We’re excited to play a role in building awareness and attention to a healthy credit score. As credit scores grow, doors to homeownership, employment and generational change occur. It’s something we can all take pride in as we look toward a strong future for our community. We invite anyone to join us for our Lunch & Learn scheduled for July 20 from 12:00 – 1:00 pm at our Habitat for Humanity Office located at 1017 Hampshire Drive, Maryville. Please RSVP to Melissa Tyler by July 15th at (865) 233-9110.”
Individuals interested in bettering their credit score or improving other aspects of their financial situation are encouraged to contact the organizations listed below to inquire about programs and technical assistance to get their finances in line and their financial future secure.
In Blount County, the following organizations have joined in the effort to provide resources:
Blount County Habitat for Humanity
Blount County Public Library
First Horizon Bank
Operation Hope
Pathway Lending CDFI
Regions Bank
Truist Bank
United Way of Blount County
UTK-Extension Office
Y-12 Federal Credit Union
For questions or more information about any of the events planned for July 20th about the 720 Highway to Financial Literacy, call Joshalyn Hundley for more information 865-971-2005.