The reaction of the program participants is the reaction any financial planner would hope for when meeting with new clients or while explaining the fundamentals of financial literacy, Bao said. It’s even more encouraging when the class is made up of individuals on parole, he added.
"Really the conversations we have aren't any different from people we meet in our offices. We talk about goal-setting, understanding the foundation of finances and the like. However the appreciation for what they're learning has been beyond what we could've expected," Bao added.
Gonzalez agreed. "These are people, people with jobs, some who own businesses, and are looking to improve themselves. They tell us they are genuinely excited over what they've learned, and can see it helping them as they earn money. Even our own officers have gone home to their families, sharing what they've learned in the course, to make changes in how they budget and save."
The program may eventually offer advanced study, or “200 level" style subjects. First, leadership wants to ensure the program continues running at its greatest potential, Bao said.
Despite past indiscretions, all participants have served time and are working toward a fresh start.
“What’s most important is that it appears they've accepted their punishment, are making financial reparations and they want to re-enter the community and be productive members of society,” said Crosby.