Do you have children who will be looking at college in the next few years or might you be thinking of returning to school yourself? Now is a great time to start thinking about the college financial aid process and ways to boost college savings. The earlier you start, the more confident and relaxed you will feel when it is time to apply for financial aid. Join Michelle Radley, College Access Counselor with the Finance Authority of Maine for this 1-hour workshop as we talk all things paying for college.

So, you’re on a budget, managing a bank account, and wondering about the next steps in your financial journey. In Adulting 102, we will look at the differences between saving and investing, and if you are ready to invest, how to get started. Other topics will include protecting your assets (insurance), advanced budgeting, and understanding the role economics plays in our financial life.  Join Steve Kautz, Financial Education Programs Specialist from the Finance Authority of Maine for this 1-hour virtual workshop as you take the next steps into adulting.

Joining us – College Savings Superstar Alfond Foundation member, Caroline Palmatier Maine families have access to two valuable programs to assist with saving and paying for education after high school: the $500 Alfond Grant and Maine’s College Savings program. While these initiatives offer great benefits, understanding each of their features can sometimes be challenging. Whether you’re a parent, guardian, or student, this session will provide you with information to make the most of these valuable resources. Join us to improve your understanding and take steps towards a successful educational future!

There are many different facets to the student loan program that can be powerful in helping you achieve your financial goals but also can be confusing. If you are struggling with your payments, did you know there are several income-based repayment plans as well as deferment or forbearance? Did you know you could get .25% off your interest rate if you sign up for auto-debit on your federal loans? Do you know you can work towards loan forgiveness now if you work for a non-profit, government or tribal agency? Whether you have recently graduated from college or have been repaying your students loans for a long time, join us to learn how to best manage your student loan repayment. Join Nikki Vachon, College Access Counselor from the Finance Authority of Maine as she shares pro-tips and answers questions.

Considering a career change? Need assistance going back to college, but not sure where to start? Have you recently lost your job and don’t know what support services are available to you? Federal law provides access for free career training and support services for adults and youth to overcome barriers to employment. Set up an appointment with our Adult Ed team and let us help you navigate the murky waters of adult transitions.

Unsure of where to start? Call us.

The Learning Center is open to all adults in need of academic instruction and guidance. Our staff provides individualized instruction in the areas of:

• High School Equivalency
• HiSET Prep
• Accuplacer Prep
• Math and ELA instruction to prepare you for college-level coursework
• General reading, writing, and math tutoring for anyone pursuing college or career education
• Workforce credential or certification tutoring and prep
• College and Career advising

All services are FREE of charge. If you or anyone you know could use any of these services, please contact us.