PENSACOLA, Fla.–A family of six has been named as the winners of Pen Air Credit Union’s NOW program, a financial advising competition that seeks to transform financial futures and which rewards winners with a $5,000 cash prize.
Over a seven-month period, the winning members, identified as Veronica and John and their four children, reduced their debt by $22,368 and increased savings by $8,922.
“The Pen Air NOW program was the tool we needed to hold our entire family accountable for our finances,” said Veronica. “Meeting with (Pen Air’s) Kate month after month and looking at the data was so helpful. Our goal was to embrace the process, set goals and meet them, and revamp our financial habits. We did just that. We are forever thankful for this opportunity and are very excited to be moving into our new home with minimal debt. If you need that extra push and level of accountability, this program is for you.”
Pandemic’s Effects
According to Pen Air CU, the pandemic was financially hard on Veronica and John.
“Focusing on their big family’s financial goals, they sought help from Pen Air’s NOW program,” the credit union said. “Over the seven-month competition, the team was able to make significate strides toward eliminating debt, boosting their credit score and increasing savings.”
In addition, Pen Air said the family began to anticipate annual expenses like sports registrations while also building an emergency fund specifically for unexpected expenses.
“I couldn’t have asked for a better team,” said Katelyn Martorana, learning and development specialist for Pen Air Credit Union.
‘Committed to Goals’
As one of Pen Air’s certified financial councilors, the credit union noted Martorana has participated in the NOW Program for two seasons, winning in 2021.
“They started the program dedicated and committed to reaching their goals. Every month from beginning to end, seeing the progress they made was inspiring and I hope that it encourages others as well,” said Martorana.
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