Note: This site is for reviewing legacy plan of work data from 2007-2011. If you are looking for the current plan of work interface, visit pow.nmsu.edu.
Financial Security for All (Curry County)
Plan Goals
Improve the financial literacy of Curry County citizens through better money and time management, increased savings, wise use of credit, and general consumerism. Provide instruction and useful budgeting to Curry County residents on various quilting, needl
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Financial Security for All - Personal Finance
Impact Reports
The Annual Extension Holiday Showcase, “Believe”, was presented three times. Many different items were made, displayed and demonstrated during the program. The program gave a variety of money saving ideas on gift giving, decorating, and recipes to help consumers prepare for Christmas and the holidays. These gifts can save the participants money and also provide meaningful gifts. A special section was incorporated on food safety tips that can be used during the holidays as well as all year long. Attendees received a book that included instructions on all the items that were presented. Approximately 423 men and women attended this program. A participant reported that she likes the fact that the showcase provides projects from a variety of interests (scrapbooking, sewing, wood items, and quilting). 80% of the attendees committed that they appreciate and use ideas from this program. 70% of the attendees believe this program helps them save time and money during the holiday season. This program has been a favorite for people in Curry County as well as the surrounding area for the past 30+ years.
Agent revised a program “Retirement Ready”. This program provided information on preparing for retirement mentally, physically, emotionally, and socially. This program was presented as a leader training, which in turn was given to 8 leaders to take back to their clubs and present. Participants reported that this program provided useful information that they planned to pass on to others. Leaders reported back that the majority of their members are retired already and thought that it is important to prepare for retirement, saying “Retirement is more than the money”.
Quilt Workshops were presented four different times, to 57 people, in order to accommodate as many participants as possible. Each of the four workshops lasted 4 days. The quilt patterns used were “Primitive Beginnings” and “Quick Trip”. Participants’ knowledge levels varied from novice to professional. The workshops were designed to teach a variety of techniques and skills to target the different levels of knowledge. Each participant reported gaining knowledge in at least one quilting technique that they had acquired prior to this workshop. As a result, the participants learned they can save money by constructing their own quilts as compared to purchasing a handmade quilt. These workshops enabled the participants to learn ways to make useful items for their home and family.
As a result of the quilt workshops the local quilting guild asked for me to present a program on “Continuous Bias”. Twenty quilters attended the program, all of which reported that this was by far the easiest technique they had ever used to make bias.
Agent revised a program “Retirement Ready”. This program provided information on preparing for retirement mentally, physically, emotionally, and socially. This program was presented as a leader training, which in turn was given to 8 leaders to take back to their clubs and present. Participants reported that this program provided useful information that they planned to pass on to others. Leaders reported back that the majority of their members are retired already and thought that it is important to prepare for retirement, saying “Retirement is more than the money”.
Quilt Workshops were presented four different times, to 57 people, in order to accommodate as many participants as possible. Each of the four workshops lasted 4 days. The quilt patterns used were “Primitive Beginnings” and “Quick Trip”. Participants’ knowledge levels varied from novice to professional. The workshops were designed to teach a variety of techniques and skills to target the different levels of knowledge. Each participant reported gaining knowledge in at least one quilting technique that they had acquired prior to this workshop. As a result, the participants learned they can save money by constructing their own quilts as compared to purchasing a handmade quilt. These workshops enabled the participants to learn ways to make useful items for their home and family.
As a result of the quilt workshops the local quilting guild asked for me to present a program on “Continuous Bias”. Twenty quilters attended the program, all of which reported that this was by far the easiest technique they had ever used to make bias.
* Within 6 months of completing the Foot in the Door program, 85% of its 166 participants reported that they were more aware of how to successfully complete a job application, over 40% have actively searched for employment using techniques and tools developed in the program, and 20% have obtained employment.
* Ten percent (10%) of participants who partook in a craft, sewing, or quilting class from the Lea County Extension Service, exhibited their projects at the Lea County Fair or the local quilt shows
* Among the 36 participants of “Knowing Your Credit” at the Clovis Community College Professional Improvement Training, 25% of the participants acknowledged that they have recently obtained their credit report and approximately 50% replied that they plan to get a report based on information presented in this program.
* Five percent (5%) of Going Green Workshop participants in Lea County have begun to implement small energy saving techniques in their homes and businesses.
* As a result of the holiday craft workshops in Lea County, 20% of the workshop participants completed additional crafts as a gift for family and friends, 10% enrolled in additional extension service programs, and 20% of the participants have begun to improve their crafts skills and move onto more difficult items/projects.
* After various beginner quilting classes in Lea County, 80% of their participants would recognize the equipment necessary to complete the project on their own, 30% purchased additional supplies to duplicate the craft at home, and 90% completed the craft item during class time to show off to other classmates as well as family and friends.
* From a Knowing Your Credit Reports and Credit Reports seminar to 69 adults at the Retired Teachers Association, 30% of its participants acknowledged that they have recently obtained their credit report and approximately 50 % replied that they plan to get a report based on information presented in this program.
* Twenty five percent of the participants in the sewing, quilting and craft programs provided by Lea County Extension Service are exhibiting their completed items in the county fair and local quilt shows.
* Ten percent (10%) of participants who partook in a craft, sewing, or quilting class from the Lea County Extension Service, exhibited their projects at the Lea County Fair or the local quilt shows
* Among the 36 participants of “Knowing Your Credit” at the Clovis Community College Professional Improvement Training, 25% of the participants acknowledged that they have recently obtained their credit report and approximately 50% replied that they plan to get a report based on information presented in this program.
* Five percent (5%) of Going Green Workshop participants in Lea County have begun to implement small energy saving techniques in their homes and businesses.
* As a result of the holiday craft workshops in Lea County, 20% of the workshop participants completed additional crafts as a gift for family and friends, 10% enrolled in additional extension service programs, and 20% of the participants have begun to improve their crafts skills and move onto more difficult items/projects.
* After various beginner quilting classes in Lea County, 80% of their participants would recognize the equipment necessary to complete the project on their own, 30% purchased additional supplies to duplicate the craft at home, and 90% completed the craft item during class time to show off to other classmates as well as family and friends.
* From a Knowing Your Credit Reports and Credit Reports seminar to 69 adults at the Retired Teachers Association, 30% of its participants acknowledged that they have recently obtained their credit report and approximately 50 % replied that they plan to get a report based on information presented in this program.
* Twenty five percent of the participants in the sewing, quilting and craft programs provided by Lea County Extension Service are exhibiting their completed items in the county fair and local quilt shows.
* After completing the Foot in the Door program, over 75% of its 166 participants reported a greater understanding and awareness of the programs available to assist job seekers, 85% had developed a professional resume and summary statement, over 90% reported that they had improved their interviewing techniques and had “greatly” benefited from the mock interviewing experience, and over 95% had set a goal regarding their financial behaviors.
* Dollar Decisions programs in Doña Ana county saw 80% of participants increased their knowledge and awareness related to money management.
* Dollar Decisions programs in Doña Ana county saw 80% of participants increased their knowledge and awareness related to money management.
The Annual Extension Holiday Showcase, “The Stockings were Hung”, was presented three times. Many different items were made, displayed and demonstrated during the program. The program gave a variety of money saving ideas on gift giving, decorating, and recipes to help consumers prepare for Christmas and the holidays. These gifts can save the participants money and also provide meaningful gifts. A special section was incorporated on food safety tips that can be used during the holidays as well as all year long. Attendees received a book that included instructions on all the items that were presented. Approximately 389 men and women attended this program. A participant reported she learned new meal time ideas that could be used all year long, not just for the holidays. Another reported that she likes the fact that the showcase provides projects from a variety of interests (scrapbooking, sewing, wood items, and quilting). This program has been a favorite for people in Curry County as well as the surrounding area for the past 30+ years.
Agent developed a program “Smart Shopping”. This program provided information on shopping for groceries, internet shopping, shopping for small appliances as well as major appliances. The basic fact is we all have to shop from time to time, whether it is for clothing, groceries, appliances or furniture. Some will shop in the traditional brick-and-mortar stores and others will use online shopping. It does not matter where or what we are shopping for we need to use good consumer decision making skills. Identify what you need, collect information about the product, evaluate alternatives and finally make the purchase. This program was presented as a leader training, which in turn was given to approximately 145 people. It was also given to 28 Mothers of Preschoolers. Participants reported that this program provided useful information that they planned to pass on to others.
Agent developed a program “Front Door Decorating”. In our busy, non-stop, go-go-go world, carving out time for relaxation will reduce the adverse health effects of stress and make you more enjoyable to be around. Put your own front porch to use this year and live at a slower, more relaxed pace. Jazz up your porch without busting your budget: a little sprucing up, restoring life to your furniture, and paying attention to the amenities on your porch. This program was presented to 22 participants at a leader training, which in turn was given to approximately 145 people through the Extension Homemakers organization. Participants reported they like this program because if provided new ways to use items they already have.
Quilt Workshops were presented four different times, to 61 people, in order to accommodate as many participants as possible. Each of the four workshops lasted 4 days. The quilt patterns used were “Glory Bound” and “Courthouse Square”. Participants’ knowledge levels varied from novice to professional. The workshops were designed to teach a variety of techniques and skills to target the different levels of knowledge. Each participant gained knowledge in at least one quilting technique that they had acquired prior to this workshop. As a result, the participants learned they can save money by constructing their own quilts as compared to purchasing a handmade quilt. These workshops enabled the participants to learn ways to make useful items for their home and family.
Agent developed a program “Smart Shopping”. This program provided information on shopping for groceries, internet shopping, shopping for small appliances as well as major appliances. The basic fact is we all have to shop from time to time, whether it is for clothing, groceries, appliances or furniture. Some will shop in the traditional brick-and-mortar stores and others will use online shopping. It does not matter where or what we are shopping for we need to use good consumer decision making skills. Identify what you need, collect information about the product, evaluate alternatives and finally make the purchase. This program was presented as a leader training, which in turn was given to approximately 145 people. It was also given to 28 Mothers of Preschoolers. Participants reported that this program provided useful information that they planned to pass on to others.
Agent developed a program “Front Door Decorating”. In our busy, non-stop, go-go-go world, carving out time for relaxation will reduce the adverse health effects of stress and make you more enjoyable to be around. Put your own front porch to use this year and live at a slower, more relaxed pace. Jazz up your porch without busting your budget: a little sprucing up, restoring life to your furniture, and paying attention to the amenities on your porch. This program was presented to 22 participants at a leader training, which in turn was given to approximately 145 people through the Extension Homemakers organization. Participants reported they like this program because if provided new ways to use items they already have.
Quilt Workshops were presented four different times, to 61 people, in order to accommodate as many participants as possible. Each of the four workshops lasted 4 days. The quilt patterns used were “Glory Bound” and “Courthouse Square”. Participants’ knowledge levels varied from novice to professional. The workshops were designed to teach a variety of techniques and skills to target the different levels of knowledge. Each participant gained knowledge in at least one quilting technique that they had acquired prior to this workshop. As a result, the participants learned they can save money by constructing their own quilts as compared to purchasing a handmade quilt. These workshops enabled the participants to learn ways to make useful items for their home and family.
The Annual Extension Holiday Showcase, “Sleigh Bells Ring”, was presented three times to approximately 438 people. Many different items were made, displayed and demonstrated during the program. The program gives a variety of ideas on gift giving, decorating, and food ideas to help consumers prepare for Christmas and the holidays. These gifts can save the participants money and also provide meaningful gifts. Attendees received a booklet with step-by-step instructions. 90% of the participants stated on the questionnaire that they gained valuable information on how to manage their money and/or time in preparing for the holidays.
Four Quilt Workshops were presented to 63 ladies. The quilt patterns used were the “Double Irish Chain” and “Broken Path”. The workshops were designed so the participant could construct the quilt that best suited them. Each workshop included how to coordinate fabrics for the quilt, rotary cutting techniques, sewing instructions, how to calculate yardage for borders, and how to bind and quilt a quilt top. Each of the four workshops were given 4 days to enable the participants to complete the project. Each participant gained knowledge in at least one quilting technique that they had acquired prior to this workshop. As a result, the participants learned they can save money by constructing their own quilts as compared to purchasing a handmade quilt. These workshops enabled the participants to learn ways to make useful items for their home and family.
“Knowing Your Credit” was presented to 36 adults during the Clovis Community College Professional Improvement Training. Attendees learned how to obtain a credit report, what is in a credit report, what affects a credit score, how it fluctuates, and what to do to improve credit scores. Credit card misuse was also discussed. 25% of the participants acknowledged that they have recently obtained their credit report. Approximately 50% replied that they plan to get a report based on information presented in this program.
“Stretching Your Dollars” was presented to 36 adults during the Clovis Community College Professional Improvement Training. Attendees learned how to apply practical information to save money on their home energy and water expenses, leisure expenses, transportation costs, and their food budget. Participants acknowledged that some of the information they had been previously aware of, however, half of the information were things they had never thought about. 60% of the participants replied that because of tough economic times, they will incorporate the information from the program into their lifestyle.
Articles have been written for each bimonthly newsletter to increase knowledge concerning financial issues. This newsletter is sent to 260 households of all ages and life stages.
Four Quilt Workshops were presented to 63 ladies. The quilt patterns used were the “Double Irish Chain” and “Broken Path”. The workshops were designed so the participant could construct the quilt that best suited them. Each workshop included how to coordinate fabrics for the quilt, rotary cutting techniques, sewing instructions, how to calculate yardage for borders, and how to bind and quilt a quilt top. Each of the four workshops were given 4 days to enable the participants to complete the project. Each participant gained knowledge in at least one quilting technique that they had acquired prior to this workshop. As a result, the participants learned they can save money by constructing their own quilts as compared to purchasing a handmade quilt. These workshops enabled the participants to learn ways to make useful items for their home and family.
“Knowing Your Credit” was presented to 36 adults during the Clovis Community College Professional Improvement Training. Attendees learned how to obtain a credit report, what is in a credit report, what affects a credit score, how it fluctuates, and what to do to improve credit scores. Credit card misuse was also discussed. 25% of the participants acknowledged that they have recently obtained their credit report. Approximately 50% replied that they plan to get a report based on information presented in this program.
“Stretching Your Dollars” was presented to 36 adults during the Clovis Community College Professional Improvement Training. Attendees learned how to apply practical information to save money on their home energy and water expenses, leisure expenses, transportation costs, and their food budget. Participants acknowledged that some of the information they had been previously aware of, however, half of the information were things they had never thought about. 60% of the participants replied that because of tough economic times, they will incorporate the information from the program into their lifestyle.
Articles have been written for each bimonthly newsletter to increase knowledge concerning financial issues. This newsletter is sent to 260 households of all ages and life stages.