Since 1995 Smart Borrowing Consumer Lending Education What is Smart Borrowing? Smart Borrowing is a new CENTS program designed to teach individuals and families the kind of financial literacy they need to make the right decisions when they borrow money. A one-of-a-kind project, Smart Borrowing is national in scale and is serving to bridge the gap between the pressing need for consumer lending education and the current lack of effective materials on the subject. This project was made through a generous grant from the Consumer Protection and Education Fund. Why Smart Borrowing? Recently, consumers have been pressed to borrow more, often under unfavorable or even unfair terms. Under financial duress, consumers can make rushed decisions, unaware of the consequences of their choices and the availability of other alternatives. Vulnerable to deceptive marketing and unethical lenders, many become mired in a perpetual cycle of debt, fed by exorbitant interest and excessive fees. Now, more than ever, it is crucial that borrowers understand the true consequences of their decisions and have the skills to make wise borrowing decisions. How will Smart Borrowing be taught? CENTS has created a curriculum designed to give even the most inexperienced consumers a sound footing in financial literacy. The Smart Borrowing program includes a DVD and accompanying comprehensive workbook. The DVD is easy to follow and features an entertaining news-style format. Consumers are interviewed by a fictional news reporter during lending scenarios and educated on Smart Borrowing options. The following borrowing scenarios are covered: Credit cards Pay Day loans Auto Loans Mortgage lending (e.g. first time home buyers) Mortgage Refinancing, Debt Consolidation Loans, and Home Equity Lines of Credit The comprehensive workbook follows the scenarios featured in the DVD and provides further information to better understand the topic. The DVD and workbook are designed for use by an individual or to be facilitated by a CENTS' staff person or designee. The facilitator is provided a facilitator notebook and ongoing consultation by CENTS staff. For more information about CENTS and Smart Borrowing, please call (206) 267-7017 or email at info@centsprogram.com. Working With CENTS For businesses or organizations that have members, clients, or employees that could benefit from Smart Borrowing, click here. Return to Programs / Projects Programs / Projects | Utilizing CENTS History | Press | Support CENTS | Contact Us | Home - Seattle, Washington | 206 267-7017 | info@centsprogram.com