WISH LIST $100: classroom materials for the 5-week Money Management 101; $500: mailing and production costs for monthly statements and savings information for 40 savers for 1 full year; $1,500: Matching Funds for 1 person in the savings programs

CAAB comes at the problems of low-income families with a unique approach. It supports the creation of Individual Development Accounts (IDAs are “matched” savings accounts; CAAB raises and manages the matching funds); and it couples these with financial management training. The idea is this: account holders save for investment in an asset: a first home, a post-secondary degree, or even a small business. Participants take financial literacy classes, learning how to budget, manage money, establish and manage credit, even plan for future retirement. They also take “asset training classes” that offer tailored advice on how to acquire and care for their chosen asset. The goal is to help low-income families move toward self-sufficiency and long-term prosperity. As of December 2006, 344 of CAAB's clients have successfully completed their IDAs: 173 bought their first home, 140 furthered their postsecondary education, and 31 started or expanded a small business. 345 additional clients are moving toward their goals. CAAB also provides money management workshops and one-one-one credit counseling services, and it advocates for public policies that support efforts to save money and achieve financial self-sufficiency. These are innovative ideas whose aim is not just to keep people afloat but to help them build assets and achieve the American dream. Won’t you invest too?

Colleen Dailey, Executive Director 1801 K Street NW, Suite M100 Washington, DC 20006 202-419-1440 ext 103 www.caab.org