Power of Credit 101
A comprehensive 8-week financial literacy program designed to equip youth across the Chicagoland area with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to build lasting financial futures.
Program Goals & Outcomes
Every element of Power of Credit 101 is designed with clear goals and measurable outcomes for each participant.
Program Goals
- Increase financial literacy among underserved youth
- Equip students with tools for credit management and repair
- Foster entrepreneurship and small business development
- Introduce real estate fundamentals and wealth-building strategies
- Provide mentorship and mental health support
- Break cycles of generational poverty through financial education
Participant Outcomes
Upon completing Power of Credit 101, participants will be able to:
- Read, interpret, and actively manage their credit reports
- Build personal and business financial systems from scratch
- Create budgets, business plans, and personalized credit plans
- Understand real estate basics and pathways to homeownership
- Develop the mindset and resilience for long-term financial success
- Access ongoing mentorship and community support networks
8 Modules. 8 Weeks. One Transformation.
Module 01: Introduction to Credit & Financial Literacy
Establish a foundational understanding of credit and why financial literacy is a life skill.
Learning Objectives
- Define credit and explain how credit scores are calculated
- Identify the three major credit bureaus
- Understand the impact of credit on housing, employment, and loans
- Set personal financial goals for the program
Module 02: Reading Credit Reports
Empower students to access, read, and understand their own credit reports.
Learning Objectives
- Obtain a free credit report from AnnualCreditReport.com
- Identify all sections of a credit report
- Spot errors and understand dispute processes
- Recognize negative vs. positive account history
Module 03: Credit From the Ground Up
Teach students how to build or rebuild credit strategically.
Learning Objectives
- Open a secured credit card or credit-builder loan
- Understand authorized user strategies
- Learn the 30% utilization rule
- Create a 6-month credit-building action plan
Module 04: Understanding Interest Rates
Demystify APR, compound interest, and the true cost of debt.
Learning Objectives
- Calculate APR and monthly interest on balances
- Compare loan products and identify predatory lending
- Understand how interest affects long-term wealth
- Make informed decisions about borrowing
Module 05: Budgeting & Saving
Build practical budgeting skills and savings habits that last.
Learning Objectives
- Create a monthly budget using the 50/30/20 framework
- Identify spending leaks and areas for savings
- Set up an emergency fund strategy
- Use budgeting tools and apps effectively
Module 06: Credit Cards — Use & Leverage
Teach responsible credit card use as a wealth-building tool.
Learning Objectives
- Understand credit card terms, fees, and rewards
- Use credit cards to build credit without accumulating debt
- Identify and avoid common credit card traps
- Leverage rewards programs strategically
Module 07: Establishing a Business
Introduce the fundamentals of starting a legitimate business entity.
Learning Objectives
- Choose the right business structure (LLC, sole proprietor, etc.)
- Register a business and obtain an EIN
- Open a business bank account
- Understand business licenses and compliance basics
Module 08: Final Business Plan + Business Credit
Build a complete business plan and establish business credit.
Learning Objectives
- Write a full business plan with financial projections
- Understand the difference between personal and business credit
- Apply for a DUNS number and begin building business credit
- Identify funding sources: grants, loans, investors
Module 09: Real Estate Fundamentals & Wealth Building
Introduce real estate as a vehicle for generational wealth.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the homebuying process from pre-approval to closing
- Learn about FHA, conventional, and first-time buyer programs
- Explore rental property and investment basics
- Calculate ROI on real estate investments
Module 10: Mental Health & Mentorship Integration
Address the emotional and psychological dimensions of financial growth.
Learning Objectives
- Identify money mindset blocks and limiting beliefs
- Connect with community mentors and professional networks
- Develop a personal accountability system
- Create a post-program action plan for continued growth
Required Materials
All materials are provided free of charge to enrolled participants.
Ready to Enroll in Power of Credit 101?
The program is free for qualifying participants in the Chicago area. Applications are open now.