We’re looking for financially savvy members of the community interested in mentoring others in one of our fastest-growing financial wellness programs. Helping individuals and families bolster their financial literacy and confidence makes mentors the backbone of EcSA (Economic Security for All). Interested in becoming a mentor? Please apply online.
EcSA combines education, mentorship, career coaching and planning, and support to overcome barriers to participants’ success. Participants build financial resilience by starting emergency funds, creating a family budget, and learning how to build credit. The course is designed to engage the whole family, so enrollees with children are asked to include them and receive age-appropriate curriculum.
EcSA mentors collaborate with mentees to develop goals, and they coach them through group and one-on-one activities using the EcSA program financial toolkit. Mentors work hand-in-hand with their enrollees to build their financial resilience, making a true difference in their lives. Some graduates of the program have gone on to become EcSA mentors.
A program graduate and a mentor/interpreter smile at her success completing the program. During the course, they underwent mentoring, career coaching, and activities. EcSA volunteer mentors use the program's toolkit to offer one-on-one and group mentoring.
The EcSA team gathers for the program's recent Family Night, where program families gathered together to learn and enjoy dozens of pancakes and three pounds of bacon. From the left are Jen, Amanda, 2D Dolly Parton, Amy, and Kevi.
EcSA is currently enrolling participants, and recently expanded to Island County. The program will keep running through June of 2025 and is in need of volunteer program mentors.
Participants may earn up to $3,200 once they complete the program goals. Families are encouraged to open child saving accounts to deposit $250, with each dollar deposited matched by the program to incentivize starting early on saving.
“The information provided was well-structured and fun to go through,” said a mentor of the program. “It’s empowering for mentors and participants alike because there’s always something to learn from our community. Sharing support is invaluable when it comes to sometimes-touchy topics like finance.”
Participants also go through employment counseling with a career coach at Northwest WorkSource Council, a partner of the program. Here, they identify their own strengths, interests, and work ethic. They also develop a career plan that meets their family’s needs.
Families graduate the program better equipped to manage their income and new opportunities. Many continue into a 2-year certification or 4-year degree or go on to secure a high-paying job with benefits.
“This program has helped push me to do things that I knew I was capable of all along, and just needed someone to believe in me and give me a nudge,” said a program participant. “I’m very proud of myself for going back to school and pursuing a degree in early childhood education and psychology.”
Program Coordinator Kevi Veldman stressed the financial resilience families gain through the program as they get over hurdles, all the while gaining confidence in themselves and their ability to get through barriers and “accomplish almost anything,” as she described it.
“A big weight is lifted off them,” Veldman said. “You see a full-circle moment.”
After they complete these goals, families can use the financial incentive to tackle their important needs like court fees, debt, or even a car, creating a foundation for success, Veldman said. If you want to mentor or participate, fill out an interest form to get involved.
Economic Security for All – Opportunity Council and Northwest Workforce Council are funded in part by Federal WIOA funds. The Opportunity Council and the Northwest Workforce Council are equal opportunity employers/programs.
