New class provides keys to financial freedom, investment success

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Lindsey Maurice
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  In an era of credit card charges and people living beyond their means, 24 Aviano men and women are well armed in the battle of obtaining financial freedom and long-term success thanks to the Airman and Family Readiness Center's newest class - Financial Planning and Investing 101.

With its debut in February as part of Military Saves Week, the class' success led to its permanent home on the schedule the third Tuesday of each month, with the next class on April 21 from 2-4:30 p.m. at the AFRC.

"This is a great class for anyone looking to build wealth and not debt," said Keith Lear, AFRC community readiness consultant. "I like to look at financial success as a ladder. Everyone's goal is to get to the top, but in order to get there, you have to take it one step at a time and understand each step you take along the way. This class gives you the knowledge to start climbing that ladder."

Some of the topics included in the course's curriculum include establishing a foundation, creating a budget, controlling debt, establishing goals, the importance of saving and the intricacies of investing, said Mr. Lear.

"Anyone has the ability to be their own financial advisor and to be a successful one at that," said Mr. Lear. "It's just a matter of arming yourself with the knowledge to do so."

Master Sgt. Jesus Arrieta of the 31st Maintenance Squadron said he attended the class in February to expand his investment knowledge.

"This was a good class in that it gave me options," he said. "It provided me direction to expand beyond the basics. Knowledge is power and the more educated you are on a subject, the wiser your choices. This also translates to freedom in achieving your goals."

Mr. Lear added that investments are a great option for any person or couple who has reached financial freedom.

"Investing is definitely a good thing, but in order for an investment to be successful, it has to be one the individual is comfortable with," he said. "During the course we help people discover which risk tolerance category they fall under and help steer them in the right direction of what investments best suites them. You shouldn't lose sleep at night worrying about your investments. You should feel safe and be knowledgeable about what you are doing with your money. "

There are twelve seats available in each class and Mr. Lear recommends couples attend the course together.

"It's important for couples to be on the same page and set goals together," he said. "If you're not both on board it will never work."

For more information or to sign up for the class, call the AFRC at 632-5407.