Showing posts with label saving money. Show all posts
Showing posts with label saving money. Show all posts

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

TO CATCH A DOLLAR Sparks New American Financial Literacy Campaign!

The Allstate Foundation, Dress for Success and the producers of the documentary To Catch a Dollar today launched an innovative new financial literacy initiative that encourages Americans to take concrete steps to improve their financial futures. The ‘My Dollar My Life’ campaign will provide Americans with the opportunity to make specific promises to change their financial health and, for the first 10,000 promises made, The Allstate Foundation will make a $1 donation to Grameen America.

“We’re honored to spearhead the ‘My Dollar My Life’ project,” said Vicky Dinges, Vice President for Public Social Responsibility at Allstate Insurance. “With each promise, we grow closer to an America where people not only understand the importance of planning for their financial future, but where people are actively building a stable financial future for themselves and their families. It’s our hope that this campaign will bring attention to financial empowerment for all Americans.”

To participate in ‘My Dollar My Life,’ users can visit tocatchadollar.com/promise and facebook.com/tocatchadollar, where they will have the ability to commit to one of a number of promises to improve their financial future, from contributing to a 401K to passing up an unnecessary purchase to save money. With each promise made, users will have the option of sharing their commitment on their Facebook newsfeed and The Allstate Foundation will donate $1 to the Grameen America branch fund for the first 10,000 promises made.

“Dress for Success has long placed a priority on improving financial literacy for women – especially those seeking to lift themselves out of poverty,” said Joi Gordon, CEO of Dress for Success Worldwide. “The ‘My Dollar My Life’ initiative is a unique way to pursue this objective, combining the power of storytelling with the reach of social media to create real impact.”

Audiences in hundreds of theaters across the country watched To Catch a Dollar on March 31, the story of the first Grameen America branch in the United States and how its borrowers are using small loans to build businesses and improve their lives. The Allstate Foundation and Dress for Success were supporters of the film’s launch event and are partners in its ongoing economic empowerment campaign designed to educate, assist and activate a growing community supporting microfinance services in the United States. Throughout the month of April, in partnership with leading activist and advocacy organizations, the To Catch a Dollar community is exploring issues related to the film and relevant for America today: women in poverty, the plight of the “unbanked” in America, savings and financial literacy, and policy solutions. Visitors can learn more at www.tocatchadollar.com.

To Catch a Dollar tells an important story, but more than that, it demonstrates to audiences that there are challenges facing women in this country, but there are also solutions – so long as we are willing to take the steps needed to reach them,” said Gayle Ferraro, director and producer of the film. “As a filmmaker, it’s an honor to work with organizations like the Allstate Foundation and Dress for Success to extend the reach of my film to have real impact in people’s lives. We’re excited to get started.”

The My Dollar My Life campaign will begin today and continue throughout the week on www.tocatchadollar.com.

About the Allstate Foundation
Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL). Through partnerships with nonprofit organizations across the country, The Allstate Foundation brings the relationships, reputation and resources of Allstate to support innovative and lasting solutions that enhance people's well-being and prosperity. With a focus on teen safe driving and building financial independence for domestic violence survivors, The Allstate Foundation also promotes safe and vital communities; tolerance, inclusion, and diversity; and economic empowerment. For more information, visit www.allstatefoundation.org.

About Dress for Success
Dress for Success is an international not-for-profit organization that promotes the economic independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support and the career development tools to help women thrive in work and in life. Since starting operations in 1997, Dress for Success has expanded to more than 110 cities in the U.S., Australia, Canada, Ireland, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, the UK and the West Indies. To date, Dress for Success has helped more than 600,000 women work towards self-sufficiency. Visit www.dressforsuccess.org to learn more.

About Grameen America
Grameen America's mission is to provide affordable microloans to financially empower low-income entrepreneurs.  Since January 2008, Grameen America, a 501(c)3, has loaned out over $16 million dollars in microloans to over 5,500 members.  Started in Jackson Heights, Queens, Grameen
America has quickly expanded to Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Omaha, Nebraska.  Our vision is to help create a world free of poverty. We predict a market where any individual with a dream can receive affordable financial products regardless of income, previous credit history, education, or business experience.  We envision a world where burgeoning entrepreneurs are empowered to lift themselves out of poverty through hard work and determination to forge better lives for their families and future generations (www.grameenamerica.org). Please contact krosenberg@grameenamerica.org / (212) 735-4023.

About To Catch A Dollar
Immediately following its theatrical premiere on March 31, the producers of To Catch a Dollar launched a text-to-give campaign to raise funds for a future Grameen America branch. By texting ‘AMERICA’ to 85944, the public will give a $10 donation to Grameen America and in a unique online selection process, users are simultaneously choosing from four candidate cities: Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles and Washington, DC. Using their Facebook accounts, voters will be able to vote once per week for the life of the contest.

To Catch A Dollar is an independent documentary owned and funded by the director Gayle Ferraro of Aerial Productions.  For more information go to www.aerialproductions.com or contact gayle@aerial-productions.com

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.
   
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Thursday, March 24, 2011

AT&T and T-Mobile Merger: Combat Possible Rising Wireless Prices

With news of a possible merger between two of the nation's largest wireless carriers and one of the most significant deals since the financial crisis, AT&T and T-Mobile's proposed $39 billion deal have many speculating: will this lead to price increases for cell phone plans and other wireless services?

Although this merger is a winning deal for the two companies involved, financial experts and consumer advocates suggest that there's a potential loser in the outcome of the decision - the consumer.

Don't let the uncertain future of unlimited minute and data plans keep you up at night. Prepare for the possible increase in wireless service prices with these 8 savvy saving tips.

1. Extend Your Family

Family plans are great for any group of reasonably trustworthy people, including roommates, friends and extended family. Members of your plan don't need to be related to receive these money saving rates, but make sure everyone on your plan is trustworthy enough to pay their share of the monthly bill.

2. Switch to Pay-As-You-Go Phones

The New Millennium Research Council says that 25 million Americans could save money by switching to a prepaid phone. Prepaid service companies like Boost Mobile, NET10 and Virgin are more accessible than ever and even major national companies are getting in on the act, crafting reasonable prepaid plans for those who want the reliability of a nationwide network. Some carriers have watered-down versions of other plans, such as the text-friendly T-Mobile offering of $15 per month for unlimited text (but no voice). Others opt for a credit model, where you pay per usage. Rates differ by company, but most charge between 5 and 10 cents per minute or text.

3. Purchase Unlocked Phones

Consider purchasing an "unlocked" phone when switching networks, signing up for a new plan or simply updating your phone. The SIM card (Subscriber Identification Module) isn't associated with one specific provider, therefore these free-agent phones are compatible with any network, allowing you to use them for the service you prefer. Amazon and eBay are just a few of the electronic stores you can purchase an unlocked phone at a very reasonable price.

4. Use Coupon Codes

You can buy unlocked phones online with coupons for Best Buy and TigerDirect from a site like CouponSherpa.com. Don't forget to use a coupon when buying accessories to compliment your new phone.

5. Make the Trade

If you are just looking for an upgrade and your phone still works, check GreenPhone or CellTradeUSA to switch for another model. The trade will cost you, but often you will discover a better deal than purchasing elsewhere. Also, consider CraigsList to purchase from a private individual. But, buyer beware, as electronics purchased from this website come with no guarantees.

6. Download Text for FREE Apps

Texting can cost upwards of $10 per month. Cut your provider out of the picture if you have a smartphone. Download free texting apps like Textfree With Voice for iPhone and chompSMS for Android which also include free voice minutes too. Even though you'll only be able to connect to others who have the app, the savings make it worth convincing your family and friends to try out this new method.

7. Take Advantage of Employer Discounts

Switch to the provider your employer uses if you're not voraciously committed to your current provider. Almost every major carrier offers a business discount that can be applied to personal phones. The only thing required is a valid e-mail address or other form of ID from your employer. From major corporations to school districts, plenty of outfits are part of these programs.

8. Let Go of the Extras & Go Basic

Service providers have started heaping on extraneous fees. Almost any desirable phone these days now requires a data plan in addition to voice, text and other services. The key is leaving all else behind and selecting only what you'll use.
 
 
All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Sunday, February 27, 2011

Book Review - The ROTH Revolution: Pay Taxes Once and Never Again

About the Book
Millions of IRA and retirement plan owners have a feeling there is something they should be doing with their money but they don’t know what to do. They are also afraid of future tax increases and want to protect themselves. There are thousands of books trying to tell you how to invest your money. "The Roth Revolution", however, offers proven strategies regarding Roth IRA conversions and other complementary strategies to help readers preserve and accumulate and pass on wealth by drastically reducing their taxes. "The Roth Revolution" provides a thorough and clear explanation, as well as a step-by-step guide on what IRA and retirement plan owners should do to maximize their retirement and estate plan.


My Take on the Book
As a person who does not always know what to do with his money, I can say that this book was straight-forward and easy to understand. I found this book to be a great resource for both the expert as well as newcomer to ROTHs. What I liked most within the book were the examples help within the book. As a non-expert, the examples were easy to understand and could be shared vastly with others to increase their own financial savvy.

Not that I a ready for retirement anytime soon, which is another reason that I along with many of my colleagues may be wanting to look for ways to save money, and ROTH IRas' are one way to consider =, as this book explains well.

Overall, this book was a quick and easy read and one that I would share with all!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.
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Tuesday, February 1, 2011

Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2- $10 Off Coupon

Disney Movie Rewards currently has a $10 off coupon for the Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2 Combo Pack!


Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2
Film Clip- Puppy Tower





All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.
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The Complete List of 66 Teacher Discounts

Teacher discounts don't often receive the same attention as those specifically for students, but educators need not frown -- there are plenty to be had.

Along with classroom supplies and other learned goodies like books, numerous teacher discounts are offered nationwide, ranging from laptops and Photoshop to museum entry and cell phone plans. Gift Card Granny has compiled a list of 66 top-notch discounts spanning nine categories, both online and off. A sampling:
  • The Container Store: The organizational aficionados provide a 15 percent discount on all items through the Organized Teacher Program. Register online for a free discount card to use for in-store and online purchases. If you visit a store, be sure to have your school ID.
  • Borders: Register for the Classroom Discount Card, a brand-spanking-new program that entitles librarians and teachers 25-percent off most purchases. The discount is for those who teach preschool to high school and available in-store only.
  • The Limited: Show a school ID or valid pay stub when you shop at any The Limited location and snag 15-percent off your entire order. The offer is good for all items on the racks, walls or tables. In other words, everything.
  • Bose: The Bose offer is prime, particularly for those in need of sonic stimulation. Variable discounts are available on all music systems and accessories. Call the Customer Focused Development Team at 1-800-353-4027 for pricing and to place an order.
  • Cell Phone Companies (Verizon, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile): This discount is a tad tricky to redeem but can save loads on a personal cell phone bill, sometimes up to 20 percent a month. Visit your providers business or discount portal and input your .edu e-mail address to check if your institution is registered. Example: Search "Verizon business discount" in an engine and click on the first result to check your discount or register.
  • National Park Service: Show a valid school ID at a slew of National Park Service visitor centers across the nation and receive 15-percent off any purchase. The discount doesn't apply to park entry or camping fees.
  • John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art: Present a valid school ID at the box office to snag a discounted day pass at the estate-turned-gallery in Sarasota, Fla. The museum, named for John Ringling of Ringling Brothers circus fame, is located at 5401 Bay Shore Road.
The Gift Card Granny list provides information where a deal can be redeemed, how to register for certain reward programs and, of course, the extent of a discount. Rules and conditions change from store to store, yet nearly all of the 66 deals are available year-round for teachers of every brand, including elementary school, high school, university and home school. Download "The Complete List of 66 Teacher Discounts" to sooth these oft-neglected educators with something more rewarding than the routine "apple for teacher."

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GiftCardGranny.com is one of four websites operating under the brand name The Frugals and dedicated to helping consumers save money and live more frugally. Other members of The Frugals family include CouponSherpa.com, MrFreeStuff.com and MrsSweepstakes.com.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.
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New to the Divadom or to Dad of Divas Reviews?
Please Subscribe to my RSS Feed! Subscribe in a reader
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