Introducing Orcas Talks Money

|||. FROM THE RESOURCE CENTER COMMUNICATIONS TEAM |||

The Orcas Community Resource Center is proud to partner with local financial institutions to launch Orcas Talks Money, a new series of no-cost, practical financial education workshops designed to help islanders take control of their finances—one step at a time.

Different from our comprehensive Orcas Money Smart program, these stand-alone workshops focus on specific topics, offering flexible learning. Participants can pick and choose what interests them or attend the full series.

Each topic is offered twice to accommodate a variety of schedules

Spending & Saving

Create a realistic budget that supports your goals and builds lasting savings.
Tue, Aug 19 | 5:30–7:00pm
Sat, Aug 23 | 10:00–11:30am

Making Housing Decisions

Learn strategies for securing stable, affordable housing.
Tue, Sep 2 | 5:30–7:00pm
Sat, Sep 6 | 10:00–11:30am

Managing Debt & Credit Cards

Gain tools for managing and reducing debt.
Tue, Oct 7 | 5:30–7:00pm
Sat, Oct 11 | 10:00–11:30am

Credit Reports & Scores

Understand and improve your credit score.
Tue, Oct 14 | 5:30–7:00pm
Sat, Oct 18 | 10:00–11:30am

Growing Assets for Your Future

Explore how to build wealth through planning and smart decisions.

Tue, Oct 21 | 5:30–7:00pm
Sat, Oct 25 | 10:00–11:30am

In addition to the workshop series, the Resource Center offers free, confidential one-on-one financial counseling, helping individuals build personalized financial plans, stay accountable, and work toward goals like reducing debt or saving for emergencies.

What Financial Literacy program participants are saying:

“Nick provided a safe environment to learn and feel motivated to do better for myself. I appreciate that so much. This island community is so special, and he helps make it so.” –Financial counseling client

“I loved learning about credit scores and how they work, budgeting, what to prioritize when looking to buy a house…everything was explained in an easy, understandable way.” –Orcas Money Smart participant

This fall also marks the return of Orcas Money Smart, the Resource Center’s comprehensive 7-month flagship financial literacy program. Starting Monday, October 6, 2025, participants will dive deeper into budgeting, banking, housing, credit, and more—with the guidance of trained volunteer mentors. Each participant works toward SMART goals with individualized support designed to build long-term financial confidence.

“We’re here to meet people where they’re at,” said Financial Educator & Counselor Nick Johns. “These workshops and programs empower our neighbors to take real, meaningful steps toward financial stability. That’s how we build a stronger, more resilient Orcas Island.”

To register for upcoming standalone workshops, visit https://form.jotform.com/251337120176146.