The nationally recognized M. Ellen Carpenter
Financial Literacy program, a joint program of the Boston Bar Association and the
United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Massachusetts, is off to a record
start. Now in its 8th year, the program -- developed with the goal
of educating high school juniors and seniors on the rewards and importance
of making smart financial decisions -- has signed up more than 440 juniors
and seniors from seven high schools across the state, 140 more students than
last year. What's next? The program needs lawyer volunteers to help teach one of the
Financial Literacy modules, which include "Personal Finance & Budgeting,"
"Using Credit and Credit Cards," "Buying a Car" and "Consequences," a session
taking place at the U.S. Bankruptcy Court that includes a mock hearing before
a presiding bankruptcy judge. The commitment is minimal, less than 5 hours total
for training, travel and teaching. Not a bankruptcy attorney? No problem.
"Experience in bankruptcy law is in no way a
prerequisite to volunteering" said Paul Connors of Hinckley, Allen & Snyder, who is volunteering for the
2nd year in a row. "Much of the value we offer to the students comes from our
own experiences outside of practicing law. The lesson plans provided are
comprehensive and give a solid foundation for guiding discussion effectively,
regardless of a volunteer's practice area and experience level. It's a great way
to make a significant impact for those who are looking to make a difference, but
might not have the time to take on a bigger commitment."
The schools who will be participating in the 2012 M. Ellen Carpenter
Financial Literacy Program include:
1. Reading High
School
2. Peabody High School
3. South High School
(Worcester)
4. Joseph P. Keefe Tech (Framingham)
5. East Boston
High School
6. Fenway High School
7. Woburn High School
The program has reached over 1750 students throughout the
state with the assistance of 400 volunteers. Want to learn more? Find out here
or contact
Public Service Coordinator Stephanie Lee at slee@bostonbar.org or
617-778-1914.