You’ve finally graduated college! Now your most pressing reminder of those university days is the looming debt of student loans. But fast forward into the years just ahead. You need a car! But what can you afford? You’re getting married! But how do the two of you reconcile your finances? You’re expecting your first child! What kind of expenses should you plan for in your budget?
Few decades in our lives are as filled with as many possibilities (and pressures) as are the 20s. We graduate college, enter the workforce and, for some, marriage takes us one step deeper into “adulthood” — something we’ve always worked toward, and the place we suddenly find ourselves. Buying our first home, raising children and establishing careers (maybe even our own business) are all generally hallmarks of our 20s, and financial knowledge and stewardship are essential elements for this period of life.
For this reason, a group of 20-somethings, each with a different background and varying life circumstances, is providing a hands-on conference for those in their 20s who are interested in sharpening their tools of practical financial stewardship. On Nov. 14, from 5–11 p.m., “20Cents: For 20-somethings. By 20-somethings. Making sense of financial stewardship,” will be held at Baptist Theological Seminary at Richmond, 3400 Brook Rd. in Richmond.
Learn what the Bible says about your money and how to make wise financial decisions that are relevant to your life right now. Enjoy a time of praise and worship, topical breakout sessions, networking, dinner from Alamo BBQ, a Q&A panel and games.
Each breakout session will be led by a person in their 20s who already has successful experiences in their area of interest. The topics are:
• “The Real World”: Networking, Resumé-building and How to Find a Fulfilling Job, led by Erin Thomas. Please bring a copy of your current resumé and personal business cards, if applicable.
• “Back to Basics: Budgets, credit and how to stay on top of your game,” led by Anders Blixt and Sam Duenckel.
• “This Economy and How It Affects Us,” led by Sebastian McClintock.
• “Money & Marriage: What Does Scripture Say?,” led by Geoff and Terra Lawrence.
• “Living Quarters: When to rent, when to buy, and what you need to know,” led by Jennifer Saval.
• “Family Planning: What You Need to Know,” led by Kevin and Amy Robinson.
• “Be Your Own Boss,” an interview with the owners of Alamo BBQ.
Register for the event by Nov. 11, on the conference web site, www.make20cents.com. The cost of 20Cents is $5, which can be paid online and covers food and materials. Any extra proceeds will be donated to missions.
20Cents is sponsored by Entrust Federal Credit Union, which only serves churches and Christian-based organizations.
Erin Thomas is communication and development coordinator for Richmond-based Needles Eye and a member of Grace Community Baptist Church.