Financial stability looks different for everyone—but having the tools, knowledge, and support to make informed financial decisions can be life-changing. Through funding from United Way of Reno County, Interfaith Housing Services’ Take Control Financial Wellness Program is helping individuals and families build confidence, skills, and long-term financial security.
The Take Control program is open to anyone in the community and uses proven financial coaching techniques to help participants identify goals, build positive financial behaviors, and create pathways toward lasting stability. Whether someone is just starting their financial journey or working to overcome challenges, the program is designed to meet participants where they are.
A Personalized Approach to Financial Wellness
Take Control combines group seminars with one-on-one financial coaching, all led by a NeighborWorks America®–certified financial capabilities coordinator. This approach allows participants to learn foundational financial concepts while also receiving individualized guidance tailored to their unique goals and circumstances.
The program can be adapted to all income levels and provides access to a variety of resources that help participants better manage personal finances and navigate the financial system with confidence.
Building Skills That Last
Each Take Control seminar follows the NeighborWorks America® financial capability training model and focuses on six core areas of financial knowledge:
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Visioning: Setting financial goals and aligning behaviors and resources to reach them
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Maximizing Income: Identifying and maximizing income sources to cover expenses and plan for the future
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Spending: Tracking expenses and making intentional spending decisions
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Saving: Planning ahead and building savings
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Borrowing: Selecting and using credit appropriately
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Protecting: Managing financial risk and protecting assets
Participants learn these principles through hands-on activities, group discussions, and individualized coaching. Financial coaching is available to all individuals who attend group education sessions.
Coaching That Puts Participants in Control
Financial coaching through the Take Control program is client-driven and goal-focused, emphasizing accountability, practice, and progress over time. Coaches provide encouragement and ongoing support as participants work toward their goals, while also connecting them to relevant financial products, services, and community resources.
Many individuals served through the program are referred by cooperative services, helping Interfaith Housing Services reach those who may benefit most from financial coaching and long-term support.
Creating Pathways to Stability and Independence
The intended beneficiaries of the Take Control program are individuals and families seeking to improve their financial stability—including people of all ages and income levels. Through budgeting support, debt management strategies, savings and emergency fund planning, and ongoing mentorship, participants gain the tools needed to reduce financial stress and build toward self-sufficiency.
In addition to financial education, participants may also be connected to other resources such as job training, educational opportunities, asset-building programs, and affordable housing assistance—helping address barriers that often stand in the way of financial security.
Measuring Impact
The success of the Take Control program is measured through tangible outcomes, including improvements in credit scores, reductions in debt, increases in savings, and progress toward individual financial goals. Regular check-ins and participant feedback also help track growth in financial confidence and overall well-being.
United Way at Work
Programs like Take Control reflect United Way of Reno County’s commitment to strengthening financial stability across the community. By investing in trusted partners like Interfaith Housing Services, United Way helps ensure individuals and families have access to the tools and support they need to build brighter, more secure futures.