Credit Cafe at Oakwood Family Homes

Lacy Ames • September 10, 2024

Empowering Homeownership: Oakwood Residents Take Charge of Their Financial Futures

Earlier this summer, I had the pleasure of visiting Oakwood Family Homes at the invitation of Vickie Mills, the Supportive Services Coordinator, to lead the Credit Café Workshop. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect—many residents are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to purchase the homes they currently rent, with homeownership on the horizon in the next few years. With that dream in mind, understanding credit became a top priority, and that’s where I stepped in to share my expertise.

The workshop was a hit! Over half of the residents turned out, eager to dive into a one-hour group session packed with practical insights. The energy in the room was palpable as participants asked thoughtful questions about how credit impacts their financial futures, especially when it comes to buying a home. But the learning didn’t stop there. The following week, I sat down with each resident for personalized, one-on-one credit report reviews. Together, we explored how they could use their newfound knowledge to boost their credit scores and take strides toward their financial dreams.

Adding to the excitement, Vickie Mills and Oakwood Resident Council President, West Parker, were on hand to address additional questions, offering insights into what’s needed and the timeline for making those homeownership dreams a reality.



This workshop was just the beginning. With more financial and homeownership education on the way, the residents of Oakwood Family Homes are on a powerful journey toward greater financial stability. They’re gaining the tools and confidence to make informed decisions about their finances, their future homes, and beyond!

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