Every day when we watch or read the news, there is story upon story regarding our struggling economy and how it is negatively impacting the lives of thousands. So it’s nice when you come across something positive in the midst of all the turmoil. I came across an amazing development thanks to United Way and their StarkPoint Centers.

 In the Bay Area in California, there is a 12.2% unemployment rate and 64% of non-profit organizations reported an increase in demand for services. With the overwhelming need of people in the community, United Way decided to take action. They, with the help of several local non-profits, came up with the idea to have a place where people who are in need can come and not only receive financial support, but be empowered as well!

At StarkPoint, people will have access to free income tax assistance, job training, academic counseling, small business training, matched savings accounts, mainstream banking options, financial education and coaching, credit counseling and foreclosure assistance. Charise Fong, Director of Neighborhood Economic Development, stated  “they are not going to be treated in the way that so many of them are used to – as case numbers, clients or even customers.  Instead they will enter SparkPoint as members who are empowered to set and achieve their own financial goals.”

Scott Whitney is a perfect example of how the StarkPoint Center can have a positive impact on someone facing tough times. Scott, a state-employed worker who is providing for a wife and 2 children, felt the sting of the recession personally when California state ordered furloughs to keep the government afloat. Even taking on a weekend job did not help with meeting his household bills. Scott turned to StarkPoint Center and since then has seen an improvement in his circumstances.

“I drop by SparkPoint every week, but it's not just for the classes. The credit counseling and resume classes have helped me a lot, but the thing that's benefited me the most is the friendship and encouragement I get at the center," Whitney said.

I feel that the most amazing part of what StarkPoint has achieved is they have addressed the whole person and not just the issues they face with the recession. The training and education they receive now will have a lasting impact on people’s lives for years to come, helping them build a strong financial foundation.

Jenny Winchell is CEO and Co-Founder of JenSea Solutions, a strategic fundraising firm. She can be reached at Jenny@JenSeaSolutions.com and for more information visit www.JenSeaSolutions.com