Appendix A:

Exercises & Handouts

# Handout 1.1: Lying Down on the Job

## 

**Objectives:** To understand your values and how they affect behavior
and interpersonal relationships in the workplace.

To learn how to make decisions when values come into conflict.

**Directions:** Read the following scenario. A group discussion will
follow.

You have been working for three months as a tele-marketer. You really
enjoy your new job and you are quite good at it. You just received a new
assignment, but your supervisor has asked you to pitch the product in a
dishonest manner. Your supervisor has asked you to lie to the customers
by assuring them the product is 100% safe, even though the product has
been recalled three times. Your supervisor tells you that he is sure
that the product is now safe. What do you do?

**Exercise 1.2: The B.O.S.S. ([B]{.underline}ig [O]{.underline}ffensive
[S]{.underline}exist [S]{.underline}upervisor)**

**Objective:** To understand how your values affect your interpersonal
relationships.

To identify appropriate responses to challenging workplace situations.

**Directions:** Read the following scenario. A group discussion will
follow.

You are working for a man who constantly puts down your female co-worker
when she is not around. Not only does your boss bash your co-worker
about the\
"terrible work she does," but he makes rude comments about her physical
appearance. In addition, he tells very offensive jokes, many of which
are either sexist or racist. You have been listening to your boss's
comments for two months now. At the beginning, you refrained from saying
anything. You were concerned that, as his subordinate, it may be out of
line. However, your boss continues to make very obnoxious comments, and
you know that it makes others uncomfortable as well. How would you
handle this situation?

# Exercise 2.1: Accepting Criticism---Scenario 1

**Objective:** To learn how to take direction from supervisors.

To learn from and accept constructive criticism.

**Estimated**

**Time:** 10-15 minutes per scenario

**Directions:** Follow along as two volunteers act out the following
scenarios. A discussion will follow.

*Supervisor:* "So, this is the report that you gave me to review."

*Employee:* "Yes. I put it on your chair before I left yesterday. Have
you had a chance to look it over?"

*Supervisor:* "This is what you call a monthly report! How dare you give
me this piece of junk! Not only did you not follow *any* of my
directions, but this is the worst report I have ever received in my
eight years at this company. I want you to redo this report before you
leave today!"

**Exercise 2.1: Accepting Criticism---Scenario 2**

## 

*Supervisor:* "I got your report this morning."

*Employee:* "Yes. I put it on your chair before I left yesterday. Have
you had a chance to look it over?"

*Supervisor:* "Yes, I have had a chance to look it over. First, thanks
for your hard work and for getting it to me on time. However, it still
needs some work. Do you have time to talk right now?"

*Employee:* "Sure."

*Supervisor:* "Great. Sections one and two only have a few revisions,
which I have outlined in the margins. Section three needs some more
detail, and sections four and five need to be reorganized. I've made
some suggestions to guide you, but if you have any questions, feel free
to come by my office. When do you think you can get the revised report
to me?"

**Exercise 3.1: Self-Motivation and Initiative**

1.  **Why is self-motivation important?
    \_**\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

2.  **What motivates you?**

> **\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_**

3.  **Who is responsible for motivating you in the workplace? Your
    supervisor? Your peers? Yourself?**

> **\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_What
> happens if you don't take responsibility for motivating yourself?**
>
> **\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_**

4.  **Can you think of any situations in which you would want to take on
    extra work, even if you were not getting compensated for it? Why or
    why not?**

> **\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_**

# \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ 

# Exercise 3.2: Taking Initiative

**Objective:** To examine the importance of self-motivation.

To take initiative in order to develop skills on the job.

**Directions:** Read the following scenario. A group discussion will
follow.

Jennifer just got hired as an office assistant in a dental office. She
is an extremely hard worker and is determined to prove herself to her
new employer. After a few weeks on the job, she comes up with (what she
considers to be) a better system for organizing the patient files. To
prove what a hard worker she is, Jennifer comes in early one morning to
get started on the project. When her supervisor arrives at work, she is
upset to see the files in disarray.

# Exercise 3.3: Above and Beyond

**Objective:** To distinguish between basic responsibilities and extra
activities.

**Directions:** Read the scenario below and answer the question that
follows.

Laurie is working for a large hotel in their housekeeping division. Her
responsibilities include:

-   Clean the number of guest rooms as assigned.

-   Clean bathrooms and sitting areas.

-   Make beds with clean linen and place clean linen in bathrooms daily.

-   Dust and vacuum rooms daily.

-   Empty wastebaskets and replace wastebasket liner daily.

-   Remove food trays, dishes, and glasses from rooms.

What extra activities could Laurie perform that are not included in her
basic responsibilities?

-   \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

-   \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

-   \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

-   \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

-   \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

-   \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Exercise 4.1: Dictionary of Strengths

A

-   Accurate

-   Ambitious

-   Articulate

-   Artistic

-   Assertive

-   Assume responsibility

-   Attentive to detail

# B

-   Bold

-   Broad-minded

-   Businesslike

# 

# C

-   Caring

-   Clear-thinking

-   Competitive

-   Confident

-   Consistent

# D

-   Dependable

-   Detail-oriented

-   Determined

# 

# E

-   Eager

-   Efficient

-   Empathetic

-   Enthusiastic

# F

-   Firm

-   Flexible

-   Friendly

# G

-   Generous

-   Good-listener

-   Good-natured

# H

-   Helpful

-   Honest

# I

-   Imaginative

-   Independent

-   Individualistic

-   Intellectual

-   Inventive

# 

# K

-   Kind

-   Knowledgeable

# 

# L

-   Logical

-   Loyal

# M

-   Meticulous

-   Modest

-   Motivated

# N

-   Natural

# O

-   Open-minded

-   Organized

-   Original

######## P

## P

-   Patient

-   Persistent

-   Practical

# 

# Q

-   Quick-learner

# R

-   Realistic

-   Reliable

-   Responsible

-   Results-oriented

-   Risk-taker

# S

-   Self-confident

-   Stable

-   Strong-willed

-   Supportive

# T

-   Teachable

-   Tenacious

-   Thorough

-   Thoughtful

-   Tolerant

-   Trusting

-   Trustworthy

# U

-   Understanding

# V

-   Versatile

# W

-   Willing to learn new things

-   Wise

# Exercise 4.2: Recognizing Your Strengths

### 

### **Objective:** To examine the connection between personal strengths and job-specific skills.

**Directions:** Take 5-10 minutes to find a job that interests you using
a newspaper, the Internet, or the examples provided below. Complete the
worksheet by writing down the job qualifications in the appropriate
column. Match the job qualifications to your own personality strengths
(as determined by the *Dictionary of Strengths* exercise) and provide a
personal example.

*Job-finder Web sites:*

[www.careermosaic.com](http://www.careermosaic.com/)

[www.careerbuilder.com](http://www.careerbuilder.com/)

[www.careercity.com](http://www.careercity.com/)

[www.monster.com](http://www.monster.com/)

[www.idealist.org](http://www.idealist.org/)

[www.jobfind.com](http://www.jobfind.com/)

[www.careerexchange.com](http://www.careerexchange.com/)

[www.ajb.dni.us](http://www.ajb.dni.us/)

[www.careerexposure.com](http://www.careerexposure.com/)

[www.nationjob.com](http://www.nationjob.com/)

*Example One:*

## Administrative Coordinator

Responsibilities include the following tasks: assisting a Department
Manager and staff with word processing, filing, database administration,
and general administrative duties. Requires excellent skills in
Microsoft Word and Excel. Must possess a professional demeanor and have
the ability to interact with all levels of personnel, including
managers, supervisors, telephone interviewers, and support staff.
Ability to prioritize work and meet deadlines while providing strong
customer service with attention to detail a must. Some college with
excellent communications skills and 1-3 years related experience
preferred.

*Example Two:*

##### Indirect Sales Associate

If you are motivated, enthusiastic, and possess a "can-do" attitude,
this could be the opportunity you've been looking for! As Indirect Sales
Associate, you will work at selected retail stores to represent Company
X and its retail partners by providing top-notch service to customers.
In order to meet or exceed monthly sales quotas, you will actively
demonstrate all of the latest products and services. We will rely on you
to develop positive relationships with national retail partners, sharing
information and training associates on an ongoing basis. You will be
assigned one store to cover each weekend on a rotating basis.
Transportation is required. Company X provides the opportunity for
development found only in rapidly expanding organizations. Our program
offers a flexible schedule and opportunity to make great money.

*Example Three:*

##### Shovel Mechanic

An exciting and challenging job opportunity! Specific responsibilities
include lubricating and cleaning parts; repairing or replacing defective
parts; and welding and fabricating parts to properly repair shovels.
With our team-based management system, you will be responsible for
prioritizing and initiating projects and routine work; coordinating task
completion with other departments; and eventually, training new
mechanics. Minimum requirements include demonstrated communication and
interpersonal skills; demonstrated ability to train and mentor others;
strong planning and organizational skills; and an excellent safety and
attendance record.

*Example Four:*

##### Kid's Club Attendant

Duties and responsibilities include: coordinating and supervising games
and activities for children; providing care to children and attending to
their personal needs; and working with parents to answer inquiries and
take care of special needs. No experience is necessary, but a minimum of
one year of childcare experience is desired. Effective interpersonal
skills and strong oral communication skills a must.

*Example Five:*

####### After-School Program Staff

Several positions available for after-school program in elementary
schools:

-   Group Leaders: Responsible for the daily supervision of children.

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-   Workshop Assistants: Responsible for assisting Group Leader in the
    daily supervision of children.

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-   Activity Specialists: Responsible for developing and implementing
    "activity plans" for children. Plans will include athletics, arts &
    crafts, computer activities, dance, and music.

All candidates must enjoy working with children. Must be patient,
enthusiastic, and have a good sense of humor.

*Example Six:*

####### Program Organizer

Children's Garden provides a unique opportunity to work with the highest
caliber of therapeutic childcare professionals in a team atmosphere. The
program organizer will lead a small team with the objective of family
preservation and reunification when an out-of-home placement for a child
is threatened or has occurred. The process involves identifying and
evaluating child and family needs and developing and implementing
wide-ranging treatment plans and approaches. We are looking for dynamic
individuals who possess strong clinical skills and moral and
professional standards.

*Example Seven:*

**University/Community Liaison**

We need an outreach representative to coordinate and perform outreach to
universities and non-profit organizations. Primary responsibilities
include leading outreach efforts to universities and non-profit
communication channels, communicating directly with university-based
researchers and non-profit representatives, designing and coordinating
marketing and outreach campaigns, and other tasks as necessary. The
ideal candidate will have exemplary communication and problem-solving
skills and strong self-motivation. He or she will be good-natured,
persuasive, and a quick learner.

*Example Eight:*

**Program Coordinator**

Seeking Program Coordinator to work as part of a two-person team
responsible for the day-to-day operations of a teen empowerment site.
Responsibilities include facilitating group activities, training and
supervising youth, supporting youth in implementing social change
initiatives, working to improve the safety and overall health of the
school or community (including conflict resolution and crisis
management), collaborating on special projects with other local and
city-wide organizations, and participating in strategic planning
efforts. Additional qualifications include a passion for social justice
and an understanding of the socio-economic, educational, and political
challenges facing urban communities. Two years experience required.
Bilingual abilities a plus.

+-----------------+-----------------------+----------------------------+
| **Exercise      |                       |                            |
| 4.2**           |                       |                            |
|                 |                       |                            |
| **Recognizing   |                       |                            |
| Your            |                       |                            |
| Strengths:**    |                       |                            |
|                 |                       |                            |
| # Translating P |                       |                            |
| ersonality Stre |                       |                            |
| ngths into Job- |                       |                            |
| Specific Skills |                       |                            |
|                 |                       |                            |
| **Job Position  |                       |                            |
| and Title:**    |                       |                            |
| Administrative  |                       |                            |
| Coordinator     |                       |                            |
+-----------------+-----------------------+----------------------------+
| **Job**         | **Personal Skills**   | **Example of How Personal  |
|                 |                       | Skills Translate Into Job  |
| **Q             |                       | Qualifications**           |
| ualifications** |                       |                            |
+-----------------+-----------------------+----------------------------+
| **1.** Ability  | -   Organized         | Everyday I coordinate my   |
| to prioritize   |                       | schedule with my           |
| work, meet      | -   Flexible          | children's schedule. I am  |
| deadlines, and  |                       | able to change my schedule |
| great attention |                       | to pick up my children at  |
| to detail       |                       | school and take them to    |
|                 |                       | the doctor's office. I     |
|                 |                       | keep track of all my       |
|                 |                       | appointments in my         |
|                 |                       | date-book, which I carry   |
|                 |                       | around and consistently    |
|                 |                       | check.                     |
+-----------------+-----------------------+----------------------------+
| Customer        | -   Enthusiastic      | Everyday, someone new asks |
| Service         |                       | me about the current       |
|                 | -   Helpful           | happenings in our          |
| Se              |                       | neighborhood. The          |
| rvice-Oriented; | -   Friendly          | residents keep referring   |
|                 |                       | people to me because they  |
| Ability to work |                       | say I am ready to lend a   |
| well with       |                       | helping hand and always    |
| others          |                       | have a smile on my face.   |
+-----------------+-----------------------+----------------------------+

+-----------------+-----------------------+----------------------------+
| **Exercise      |                       |                            |
| 4.2**           |                       |                            |
|                 |                       |                            |
| **Recognizing   |                       |                            |
| Your            |                       |                            |
| Strengths:**    |                       |                            |
|                 |                       |                            |
| # Translating P |                       |                            |
| ersonality Stre |                       |                            |
| ngths into Job- |                       |                            |
| Specific Skills |                       |                            |
|                 |                       |                            |
| **Job Position  |                       |                            |
| and Title:      |                       |                            |
| \               |                       |                            |
| _\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ |                       |                            |
| \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\ |                       |                            |
| _\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ |                       |                            |
| \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\ |                       |                            |
| _\_\_\_\_\_\_** |                       |                            |
+-----------------+-----------------------+----------------------------+
| **Job**         | **Employee Skills**   | **Personal Example of How  |
|                 |                       | My Employee Skills         |
| **Q             |                       | Translate into Job         |
| ualifications** |                       | Qualifications**           |
+-----------------+-----------------------+----------------------------+
| **1.**          |                       |                            |
+-----------------+-----------------------+----------------------------+
| **2.**          |                       |                            |
+-----------------+-----------------------+----------------------------+
| **3.**          |                       |                            |
+-----------------+-----------------------+----------------------------+
| **4.**          |                       |                            |
+-----------------+-----------------------+----------------------------+

# Handout 5.1: Overcoming Obstacles (Scenario 1)

Katie has been working at CBA, Inc. for one year. Because of her proven
efficiency and high quality work, her managers have been giving her a
lot of work. Every day the piles continue to build up on her desk.
Unfortunately, it has gotten to the point that it is no longer
manageable for Katie to complete all of the work on her own. Jim, her
colleague, does much of the same work that Katie does, but he does not
seem to be consistently busy like Katie. The only way for Katie to
complete her responsibilities is to stay late at least two nights per
week. This is a problem for Katie because she does not have anyone to
care for her children if she is late. What should Katie do?

**Handout 5.1: Overcoming Obstacles (Scenario 2)**

Anthony is a 23-year-old ex-offender. When he was 19, he was a member of
a gang and committed armed robbery. He served one year in jail and was
released on good behavior. While in jail, he began to turn his life
around. He started by getting his GED, as well as taking courses offered
by a local college program. Now that he has been released from prison,
is about to join the workforce. However, he must declare on all his job
applications that he has served time. Anthony has applied for five
different positions, but has yet to make it to the face-to-face
interview to explain how he has turned his life around. What can he do?

**Handout 5.1: Overcoming Obstacles (Scenario 3)**

Susan is a 31-year-old single mother of two. The children range in age
range from 14 months to two years. She has been working for the same
employer for three months, has not missed a day of work, and has
consistently been on time. Her children are not old enough for school
yet, so Susan must wake up extra early to bring her children to daycare.
To reduce the costs of daycare, Susan's mother baby-sits the children
twice a week. However, Susan's mother has been sick with a cold for the
past week. Unknown to Susan or her mother, the children have caught the
cold. Susan's mother is too weak to care for the sick children and the
daycare provider will not allow sick children in their care. Susan is
expected to attend a meeting at work, so it is important for her to be
there on time. How should Susan handle this unexpected turn of events?

# Handout 6.1: Equal Employment Opportunity Laws

See: [www.eeoc.gov]{.underline}

-   [Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title
    VII)](../../laws/vii.html) prohibits discrimination on the basis of
    race, color, religion, sex, and national origin.

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-   Title VII applies to employers with fifteen (15) or more employees

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-   [The]{.underline} [Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967
    (ADEA)](../../laws/adea.html) prohibits age discrimination against
    individuals who are forty (40) years of age or older.

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-   The ADEA applies to employers with twenty (20) or more employees

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-   [Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990
    (ADA)](../../laws/ada.html) prohibits employment discrimination
    against qualified individuals with disabilities.

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```
-   The ADA applies to employers with fifteen (15) or more employees

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```
-   [The]{.underline} [Equal Pay Act of 1963 (EPA)](../../laws/epa.html)
    prohibits wage discrimination between men and women in substantially
    equal jobs within the same establishment.

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```
-   The EPA applies to most employers.

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-   The state and local laws prohibit discrimination on the basis of:
    \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

-   Your local office of EEOC is located at:
    \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
    \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

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```
-   Your local office of \[Human Rights\] is located
    at:\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
    \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

# Exercise 6.2: Prejudice (Scenario 1) 

**Objective:** To learn about prejudice and discrimination, both from
the perspective of the victim and the perpetrator.

**Directions:** Read the following scenario. A group discussion will
follow.

You have been an order puller in a warehouse for one year. You are good
at your job, and everyone knows it. You work so efficiently that you
often manage to get done early. Your supervisor recently recognized your
hard work by giving you a raise.

Then one day, your supervisor approaches you and tells you that the
owner's son, whom you heard through the grapevine has flunked out of
college and wrecked the SUV his parents bought him for high school
graduation, is going to start working with you. Your supervisor informs
you that you will be responsible for training him. You also find out
that he is going to be making the same amount of money that you are
making after an entire year.

**Exercise 6.2: Prejudice (Scenario 2)**

# 

You have been working for seven months as the receptionist for a small
firm. Of the 25 employees, you are the only person of your ethnicity who
works there. And you are the only receptionist. The other employees
include sales people, technicians, four or five secretaries, a couple of
mid-level managers, and the owner. You have become quite efficient at
your job, and on some occasions, have even done the work of secretaries
when they needed help or were out sick.

During your seven months, the company has hired outside to fill two
secretarial vacancies. You had not really been aware of the vacancies
because you were happy with your job and were busy learning your
position. However, you have come to find out that at least two of the
secretaries on staff began as the receptionist and were subsequently
promoted to secretary.

One day you look up and two people are coming in to be interviewed for
yet another secretarial position. You knew nothing about the opening,
although it soon becomes apparent that other staff members did. Later
that day, you go to the boss and say that you didn't know about the
opening and are interested in interviewing for the position. She
apologizes and says that she already selected someone. What do you do?
Is it discrimination?

# Handout 6.3: Autobiography in Five Short Chapters

# 

#### **I**

I walk down the street.

There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.

I fall in.

I am lost . . .I am helpless.

It isn't my fault.

It takes forever to find a way out.

#### **II**

I walk down the same street.

There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.

I pretend I don't see it.

I fall in again.

I can't believe I am in this same place.

But, it isn't my fault.

It still takes a long time to get out.

#### **III**

I walk down the same street.

There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.

I *see* it there.

I still fall in . . .it's a habit . . .but,

My eyes are open.

I know where I am.

It is *my* fault.

I get out immediately.

#### **IV**

I walk down the same street.

There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.

I walk around it.

## V

I walk down another street.

### By Portia Nelson

*There's A Hole in My Sidewalk*

(Hillsboro, OR: Beyond Words Publishing, 1992)

Exercise 7.1: Priorities, Responsibilities, and Conflicting Interests

Directions: Take a few minutes to think about your priorities and answer
the first question in the space provided. Think about such things as
your family, friends, spirituality, health, finances, etc. You will then
have the opportunity to share your ideas with the group.

1.  What are your priorities? What things are most important for you to
    do or accomplish?

> \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
>
> \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
>
> \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
>
> \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
>
> \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
>
> \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

2.  What does an individual need to have or do to balance work with
    other responsibilities?

    You may want to add responses that you hear from others in the
    group.

> \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
>
> \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
>
> \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
>
> \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
>
> \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
>
> \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

# Exercise 7.2: Resource Mapping

**Objective:** To identify community resources that can make working or
looking for work easier for you.

> To help you to think broadly and creatively about the resources in
> your community.

Directions: As a group, you are going to create a map of community
resources. Take your time to think about anything that can be a
resource: a community organization, a large or single-person business, a
government agency, a church, or even your neighbor. There are many
resources available to all of us, some of which we aren't even aware.

1.  Look through newspapers, phone books, and any other lists of
    community organizations, government agencies, and businesses for all
    types of resources and services within your community. Write the
    names of these resource providers on the map for the group.

2.  Next, write the service or benefit that the organization provides.
    It does not have to be something you have used or expect to use.
    Although, if you write it down, you will be aware of the service
    when you, or a friend, need it.

3.  Repeat steps 1 and 2 for your personal resource map, filling in the
    spaces on the blank map provided. In addition to the community
    organizations and businesses listed on the group map, consider the
    following things:

-   Who (personally) do you know? What organizations do you belong to
    that may offer a resource just for you?

-   What resources do these people provide? A car? A skill? Live near
    your child's school?

1.  Look at the group map and your personal map and put these resources
    into a list that you can use at home. The sample list can help you
    organize each community resource by category. For example, if the
    church provides both childcare and a support groups, you would write
    the church information in both categories. Then, you don't have to
    remember all the church's activities.

> Add the name, number, address, and other details of each organization
> in the proper column on the resource worksheet. Do not limit yourself
> to this worksheet -- add any new categories you think you may need and
> add as many pieces of paper as necessary. It is better to have too
> many resources on hand than too few.

Personal Resource Map

Community Resource List

+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
| Category of        | Person        | Description of Services &      |
| Resource           | /Organization | Availability                   |
|                    | Phone &       |                                |
|                    | Address       |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
| Example: One-Stop  | WorkSource,   | Job bank, training vouchers,   |
|                    | 768-1988 400  | career counseling.             |
|                    | Fairfax Ave.  |                                |
|                    |               | Open M-W-F 9am-5pm, T-Th 9-7pm |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
| Child Care         |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
| -   All day        |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
| -   Emergency Only |               |                                |
|     (e.g., sick    |               |                                |
|     child or       |               |                                |
|     provider)      |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
| -   Weekends       |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
| -   Evenings       |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
|                    |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
|                    |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
| Transportation     |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
| -   Public         |               |                                |
|     Transportation |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
| -   Taxi           |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
| -   Friend with    |               |                                |
|     Vehicle        |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
| -   Car repair     |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
|                    |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
| Finances           |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
| -   Bank           |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
| Category of        | Person        | Description of Services &      |
| Resource           | /Organization | Availability                   |
|                    | Phone &       |                                |
|                    | Address       |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
| Finances           |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
| -   Credit         |               |                                |
|     Counseling     |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
|                    |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
|                    |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
| Social             |               |                                |
| Service/Support    |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
| -   Financial      |               |                                |
|     Assistance     |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
|                    |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
|                    |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
| Health             |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
| -   Emergency room |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
| -   Clinic/Family  |               |                                |
|     Doctor         |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
|                    |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
|                    |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
| Career             |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
| -   Job counselor  |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
| -   Community      |               |                                |
|     College        |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+
| -   One-Stop       |               |                                |
|     center         |               |                                |
+--------------------+---------------+--------------------------------+

  --------------------- --------------------- --------------------------------
  Category of Resource  Person/Organization   Description of Services &
                        Phone & Address       Availability

                                              

                                              

                                              

                                              

                                              

                                              

                                              

                                              

                                              

                                              

                                              

                                              

                                              

                                              

                                              

                                              

                                              
  --------------------- --------------------- --------------------------------

#  Exercise 7.3: Preparing for Emergencies & Unexpected Events (Scenario 1)

Good news. Beth's cousin, Toni, has found a job opportunity for her. The
receptionist at her dentist's office quit and they need to hire someone
immediately. Toni told her dentist what an organized and enthusiastic
person Beth is, and that she'd be great for the job. The dentist said
that if she can come in for an interview on Thursday with a list of
references, they would consider her for the job. Today is Monday.

Some facts about Beth:

-   She has a three-year-old son;

-   She lives four miles from the dentist's office;

-   She has never had a job before; and

-   She is a volunteer at the Neighborhood Networks center and her
    church.

To make sure that Beth doesn't forget any details of preparing for the
interview, think only about the question in the first column: What does
she need? Think about everything she will need for herself and for her
family in order to get to the interview, as well as everything she will
need during the interview.

When you think you have covered everything necessary to be ready for the
interview, look at your community asset map and list for where Beth can
find help in preparing for the interview.

  ---------------------------------- ------------------------------------
  **What must Beth do to be ready    **Community resources Beth can use**
  for an interview on Thursday?**    

                                     

                                     

                                     

                                     

                                     

                                     

                                     

                                     
  ---------------------------------- ------------------------------------

# Exercise 7.3: Preparing for Emergencies & Unexpected Events (Scenario 2)

# 

Congratulations! Beth got the job. Can you believe they need her to
start working on Monday? That leaves her only three days to find
reliable and affordable childcare for her three-year-old son. She has
called a few day care centers and made two disheartening discoveries:
(1) her son does not have all the immunizations needed to attend a
licensed day care; and (2) the day care centers require payment after
the first two weeks-- but she won't get paid and have enough money for
four weeks. What can Beth do?

  ---------------------------------- ------------------------------------
  **What does Beth needs to          Community resources Beth can use
  accomplish before she can begin    
  her new job?**                     

                                     

                                     

                                     

                                     

                                     

                                     

                                     

                                     

                                     

                                     
  ---------------------------------- ------------------------------------

Are there any emergency situations for which Beth should make plans?

# Exercise 7.3: Preparing for Emergencies & Unexpected Events (Scenario 3)

Beth has been working as a receptionist in the dental office for six
months now. She is good at her job, but she doesn't find it very
challenging. She would prefer to be one of the dental hygienists, as it
seems more interesting and she knows that she could make more money as a
hygienist. Unfortunately, Beth is concerned that she does not have the
time or money for the required training. What can Beth do?

  ---------------------------------- ------------------------------------
  **What does Beth need to do to     Community resources Beth can use
  explore and pursue a new career?** 

                                     

                                     

                                     

                                     

                                     

                                     

                                     

                                     

                                     

                                     

                                     
  ---------------------------------- ------------------------------------

Did you discover any new resources or uses of the resources during this
exercise? If so, write them here.

> \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
> \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
>
> \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
> \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
>
> \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
> \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

**Exercise 8.1: 24 Hours a Day**

**Objective:** To identify how you spend your time on a typical day.

**Directions:** Think about a typical weekday. How much time
(approximately) do you spend on each activity?

> \_\_\_\_\_ Sleeping
>
> \_\_\_\_\_ Cooking and Eating
>
> \_\_\_\_\_ Getting ready for the day
>
> \_\_\_\_\_ Working
>
> \_\_\_\_\_ School/Training
>
> \_\_\_\_\_ Entertainment (TV, sports, socializing, etc.)
>
> \_\_\_\_\_ Taking care of children
>
> \_\_\_\_\_ Commuting to work and/or taking children to daycare or
> school
>
> \_\_\_\_\_ Housework (repairs, cleaning, grocery shopping, etc.)
>
> \_\_\_\_\_
> Other\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
>
> \_\_\_\_\_
> Other\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
>
> **\_\_\_\_\_ TOTAL**

-   Did your time add up to more than 24 hours? Where can you cut back?

> \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
> \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
>
> \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
> \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

-   Do you have time left in the day? What can you do with this extra
    time?

> \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
> \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

##  \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ 

##  Exercise 8.2: Day Planner

**Directions:** Now that you have had time to think generally about how
you allocate your time during the day, you are going to prepare a daily
schedule. While you are free to determine how much time you want to
devote to particular activities, *everyone's schedule must include eight
hours of work.* If you are not currently working (or not working
full-time), this exercise will give you an opportunity to envision what
your day would look like if you were.

During this exercise, consider how to organize your time more
efficiently so that you can accomplish all of the "necessary" tasks
(work, housework, etc.) while still having time for the things you enjoy
(playing with your children, socializing with friends, etc.). Think
about ways to consolidate activities, and don't forget about weekends,
lunch breaks, and days off. If you decide to assign certain activities
that you normally do during the week (e.g., grocery shopping) to the
weekend, you may want to note that below the schedule.

+----------------+-----------------------------------------------------+
| **Exact Time** | Activity                                            |
|                |                                                     |
| **(e.g.,       |                                                     |
| 8:15-10:30)**  |                                                     |
+----------------+-----------------------------------------------------+
|                |                                                     |
+----------------+-----------------------------------------------------+
|                |                                                     |
+----------------+-----------------------------------------------------+
|                |                                                     |
+----------------+-----------------------------------------------------+
|                |                                                     |
+----------------+-----------------------------------------------------+
|                |                                                     |
+----------------+-----------------------------------------------------+
|                |                                                     |
+----------------+-----------------------------------------------------+
|                |                                                     |
+----------------+-----------------------------------------------------+
|                |                                                     |
+----------------+-----------------------------------------------------+
|                |                                                     |
+----------------+-----------------------------------------------------+
|                |                                                     |
+----------------+-----------------------------------------------------+
|                |                                                     |
+----------------+-----------------------------------------------------+
|                |                                                     |
+----------------+-----------------------------------------------------+
|                |                                                     |
+----------------+-----------------------------------------------------+
|                |                                                     |
+----------------+-----------------------------------------------------+
|                |                                                     |
+----------------+-----------------------------------------------------+
|                |                                                     |
+----------------+-----------------------------------------------------+
|                |                                                     |
+----------------+-----------------------------------------------------+
|                |                                                     |
+----------------+-----------------------------------------------------+

## 

## Notes:\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ 

##  Exercise 8.3: Beyond Scheduling: Dealing with Unexpected Events

Great scheduling! Unfortunately, things don't always go according to
plan . . . .

Assume that your transportation to work failed. If you drive, your car
broke down; if you take the bus, you missed the last bus for an hour.

-   How are you going to get to work?

-   How will you rearrange your schedule?

-   What resources from the resource mapping exercise can you?

**Ways in which your schedule would change:**

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_**\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_**

**Resources you would draw upon:**

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_**\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_**

Exercise 8.4: Don't Forget "To Do"

### 

Directions: Even if you have your "regular" routine down, things
sometimes change from day to day or week to week. "To Do" lists are a
great way to keep track of the uncommon or more intermittent activities
that fit into a schedule.

First begin with a monthly calendar (see the next page). Examples of
common events to include are:

-   Due dates for bills

-   Meetings of clubs, social events, etc.

-   Doctor's appointments

-   Special work meetings

-   Birthdays

Your whole family or household can use the same monthly calendar.
Keeping everyone informed will make it easier to remain organized and
get things done on time.

After you create your monthly calendar, create a weekly "To Do" list for
next week. A weekly "To Do" list will be much more detailed than a
monthly calendar. Although you should begin with events or activities
from your monthly calendar, you will also want to include day-to-day
activities, such as grocery shopping, going to the bank, getting the oil
changed in your car, making an important phone call, etc.

As you create your list, be sure to establish priorities. Do some
activities have specific timelines (e.g., a rent payment or a dentist
appointment)? Are some things more important to you (e.g., visiting your
grandmother versus washing the laundry)? Keep these things in mind as
you establish your list.

Use this space to write a list of what you need to do this week (and
when):

1.\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

2.\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

3.\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

4.\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

5.\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

6.\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

7.\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

8.\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

9.\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

10.\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Exercise 8.4: Don't Forget "To Do" (Cont'd.)

### 

The Monthly Calendar

+--------+---------+---------+----------+---------+---------+---------+
| **Su   | #       | **Tu    | **Wed    | **Thu   | **F     | **Sat   |
| nday** |  Monday | esday** | nesday** | rsday** | riday** | urday** |
+--------+---------+---------+----------+---------+---------+---------+
|        | 1       | 2       | 3        | 4       | 5       | 6       |
+--------+---------+---------+----------+---------+---------+---------+
| 7      | 8       | 9       | 10       | 11      | 12      | 13      |
+--------+---------+---------+----------+---------+---------+---------+
| 14     | 15      | 16      | 17       | 18      | 19      | 20      |
+--------+---------+---------+----------+---------+---------+---------+
| 21     | 22      | 23      | 24       | 25      | 26      | 27      |
+--------+---------+---------+----------+---------+---------+---------+
| 28     | 29      | 30      |          |         |         |         |
+--------+---------+---------+----------+---------+---------+---------+

# Exercise 9.1: Setting & Following a Household Budget[^1]

**Directions:** Even if you are working full-time, you need to know the
limits of your paycheck. The best way to ensure you have enough money
for necessities is to develop a spending plan, otherwise known as a
budget. A budget is your financial "road map." It helps your dollars
stay on track so that you can reach your goals, and it prevents you from
taking unnecessary and expensive detours.

Developing a budget involved 4 steps:

-   Identify your income

-   List your expenses

-   Compare income and expenses

-   Set priorities and make changes

#### **Step 1: Identifying Income**

+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| ##### Sources                                  | #                   |
|                                                | #### Monthly Income |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
|                                                |                     |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| After tax wages (yourself)                     | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| After-tax wages (others in household)          | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Tips or bonuses                                | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Child support                                  | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Unemployment compensation                      | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Social Security or SSI                         | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Public Assistance                              | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Food Stamps                                    | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Tax Refunds (EITC)                             | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Interest                                       | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Other                                          | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
|                                                |                     |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Total Income                                   | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+

If your income is different each month, you can calculate your monthly
income by averaging the income you earn over a few months. Consider the
following example:

> Shawna works full-time as a waitress in a restaurant. She also cleans
> houses during the holidays. Her take-home pay for the last three
> months was:
>
> December............\$750
>
> January ............\...\$550
>
> February ..............[\$575]{.underline}
>
> Total ................\$1,875 =\> \$1,875 divided by 3 = \$625

# Exercise 9.1: Setting & Following a Household Budget (Cont'd.)

#### 

#### **Step 2: Identify Expenses**

+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| ##### Sources .                                | ##### Per Month     |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
|                                                |                     |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Rent or mortgage                               | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Heating fuel and electricity                   | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Water                                          | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Telephone                                      | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Other household expenses (cable TV, newspaper) | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Groceries                                      | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Snacks, meals eaten out                        | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Transportation (bus fare, car repair, gas,     | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
| etc.)                                          |                     |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Auto insurance premiums                        | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Doctor and dentist bills                       | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Child care                                     | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Taxes (car or home, income if you own a        | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
| business)                                      |                     |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Pet care                                       | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Union dues                                     | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Clothing/uniform                               | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Loans                                          | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Credit cards                                   | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Personal (toiletries, allowances, hair care,   | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
| etc.)                                          |                     |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Miscellaneous (gifts, vacation, school)        | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Savings                                        | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
|                                                |                     |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
| Total Expenses                                 | \$ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_   |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+
|                                                |                     |
+------------------------------------------------+---------------------+

Some expenses, such as car insurance, are only due every three or six
months. It is a good idea to figure out how much you should save each
month to pay these bills. To do this, divide the amount of each payment
by the number of months between payments. You may even want to ask your
insurance company if you can pay it monthly.

Example: Car insurance is \$270 for 3 months =\> \$270/3 = \$90 per
month.

# Exercise 9.1: Setting & Following a Household Budget (Cont'd.)

#### 

#### **Step 3: Comparing Income and Expenses**

Your total monthly income (from step 1)...................\$
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Your total monthly expenses (from step 2) ................\$
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

The amount remaining each month .........................\$
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

-   Do you have money left at the end of the month? What will you do
    with it?

-   Are your expenses more than your income? What can you do to change
    this?

```{=html}
<!-- -->
```
-   Plan to re-evaluate your budget every 2 to 3 months as your income
    and

expenses may change frequently.

# Exercise 9.1: Setting & Following a Household Budget (Cont'd.)

#### **Step 4: Establishing Priorities and Making Changes**

Don't feel badly if your expenses exceed your income. It happens to
virtually everyone at some point! The most important thing to do when
this happens is to look carefully at your budget to figure out how you
can get back on track. Getting back on track usually means increasing
income, cutting expenses, or both.

-   Option 1: Increase your income.

> There are many ways to increase household income. Is there a spouse or
> other family member who isn't working outside the home? Maybe he or
> she could consider a part-time job.

What are other ideas? Resources:

[\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_]{.underline}
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

[\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_]{.underline}
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

[\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_]{.underline}
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

> Are there resources available in your community to help you pursue
> these ideas? You may want to refer back to the resource mapping
> exercise for ideas.

-   Option 2: Cut your expenses.

> Take a look at your expenses and see where you can save more money.
> Even small changes add up over time. Maybe you can take a brown bag
> lunch to work. You might also ask your electricity or heating
> suppliers about budget billing. It can spread your costs over 12
> months so you are not hit with huge bills during the winter months.
> What are other ideas?

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

# Handout 9.2: The Earned Income Tax Credit

**The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC):**

**Extra Money for People Who Work**

**What is the Earned Income Credit?**

> The EITC is a special tax benefit for working people who earn low or
> moderate incomes. It has several important purposes: to reduce the tax
> burden on theses workers, to supplement wages, and to make work more
> attractive than welfare.

Workers who qualify for the EITC and file a federal tax return can get
back some or all of the federal income tax that was taken out of their
pay during the year. They may also get extra cash back from the IRS.
Even workers whose earnings are too small to have paid taxes can get the
EITC. What's more, the EITC reduces any additional taxes workers may
owe.

**Who can get the EITC and how much is it worth?**

Single or married people who worked full or part time at some point
during 2000 can qualify for the EITC, depending on their income.

-   Workers who were raising one child in their home and had family
    income of less than \$27,413 in 2000 can get an EITC of up to
    \$2,353.

-   Workers who were raising more than one child in their home and had
    family income of less than \$31,152 in 2000 can get an EITC of up to
    \$3,888.

-   Workers who were not raising children in their home but were between
    ages 25 and 64 on December 31, 2000 and had income below \$10,380
    can get an EITC of up to \$353.

**How does the EITC work?**

-   *Eligible workers can get a check from the IRS.* Ms. Berger has two
    children in college and earned \$19,000 in 2000. Her federal income
    tax for the year was \$660, all of which was withheld from her pay.
    She is eligible for an EITC of \$2,439. The EITC pays her back the
    \$660 she paid in income tax and gives her an additional cash refund
    of \$1,779.

-   *Eligible workers who don't owe federal income tax can get a check.*
    Mr. Smith has no children. He worked part time in 2000 earning
    \$4.900. Because of his low earnings he had no income tax taken out
    of his paycheck and owes nothing to the IRS. His earnings entitle
    him to an EITC check for \$347.

-   *Eligible workers pay less in taxes.* Mr. and Mrs. Johnson have two
    children. They earned \$26,000 in 2000 and owe the IRS \$1,000 more
    than what was withheld from their pay during the year. But their
    income also makes then eligible for an EITC of \$964. The EITC
    reduces the additional taxes they owe from \$1,000 to \$34.

**How do you get the EITC?**

-   Workers raising children in 2000 must file either form 1040 or 1040A
    and *must* fill out and attach Schedule EITC. Workers with children
    *cannot* get the EITC if the file form 1040EZ or fail to attach
    Schedule EITC. Married workers must file a joint return to get the
    EITC.

-   Workers who were not raising children in 2000 can file any tax form
    -- including the 1040EZ. These workers write "EITC" (or the dollar
    amount of their credit) on the Earned Income Tax Credit line on the
    tax form. They do not file Schedule EITC.

-   A correct name and Social Security number must be provided for every
    person listed on the tax return and schedule EITC. If this
    information is incorrect or missing, the refund will be delayed.

**Workers raising children can get the EITC in their paychecks!**

Workers who are raising children can get part of their EITC in their
paychecks throughout the year and part in a check from the IRS after
they file their tax return. This is called the advance payment option.

**Workers can get FREE help filing their tax forms**

Many families that apply for the EITC pay someone to complete their tax
forms. This can cost \$25 to \$65. Getting a "quick tax refund" that
comes back in a few days costs even more. Paying for tax preparation
takes away from the value of the EITC. But low-income workers can get
free help with tax preparation through a program called VITA (Volunteer
Income Tax Assistance).

**Does the EITC affect welfare benefits?**

In most cases, the EITC does not affect eligibility for benefits like
cash assistance (TANF), Medicaid, Food Stamps, SSI, or public or
subsidized housing.

**Can immigrant workers get the EITC?**

Many legal immigrants can qualify for the EITC, as long as they meet the
eligibility requirements.

**How can I get more information on the EITC?**

-   You can find a complete guide to the EITC at
    [http://www.cbpp.org/EIC2000/index.html](http://www.cbpp.org/eic2000/index.html).

-   Call the IRS at 1-800-TAX-1040. Be patient; the 24-hour line is
    often busy.

# Exercise 9.3: Renting To Own

#### 

How many times have you passed a rent-to-own store and seen a sign in
the window advertising a TV for only \$15 a week? If it sounds too good
to be true, it probably is. By the time you have paid off the TV, you
may have paid 3 to 10 times as much as it really cost! Let's look at the
following situation.

Ray decided to buy a TV on a rent-to-own plan. The rent-to-own store had
the same model Ray had seen in a department store selling for \$400. The
rent-to-own store would rent it for \$15.95 per week, plus sales tax and
delivery. He would own the TV in 78 weeks. Before Ray signed the rental
papers, he did some math:

> Weekly rental...........................\$15.95 x 78 weeks =
> \$\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
>
> 5% sales tax...........................\...\$ 0.80 x 78 weeks =
> \$\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
>
> Delivery fee..............................\$10.00 (once) =
> \$\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

###  **Total cost of rent-to-own TV............................... \$\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_**

**Questions for Discussion:**

-   If you were Ray, what would you do? What if you did not have the
    \$400 up-front, but knew you could afford \$15.95 per week?

-   What are some other ways of that you could buy the TV?

**Handout 9.4: Credit Cards**

**Key Ideas and Terms:**

-   **Credit cards** provide easy, short-term, and possibly expensive
    loans. It is money trusted to you with the understanding that you
    will pay back the full amount you "borrow " plus interest. Your
    repayment of credit cards becomes a part of your "credit history,"
    which is reviewed when you want to take a bank loan for large items
    like a car or house.

-   **Interest** is the cost of borrowing money. It is given as a
    percentage of the loan. For each percentage point, you pay one cent
    to borrow one dollar. If you borrow \$100 for a year at a 20 percent
    APR, you will pay \$20 at the end of the year for borrowing that
    \$100.

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```
-   APR is short for "annual percentage rate." Nearly all credit cards
    and loans are quoted in APR. If the APR is 20 percent, note that you
    would not pay 20 percent every month. Rather, the interest is spread
    out over 12 months. The monthly interest rate for a 20% APR is 1.67
    percent (20 ÷ 12 = 1.67).

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```
-   Balance is the amount remaining on a credit card at the end of each
    month. If Ray bought a television for \$430 and paid \$30 on his
    credit card, then his balance would be a little over \$400. Remember
    it would not be exactly \$400 because interest would be added to the
    original amount that Ray had charged to his card. This interest
    becomes part of the new monthly balance.

Let's look at how much Ray would pay if he purchased a \$400 television
on credit. Remember, the cost after tax and delivery is \$430. Ray's
credit card has a 20 percent APR. Calculate how much Ray would pay if he
decided to wait an entire year to pay for the TV that was on his credit
card.

\$430 \* 20% = \$86 in interest =\> 430 + \$86 = \$516 total

**Questions for discussion:**

-   If you wanted to use credit to purchase something, what steps could
    you take to keep the total costs as low as possible?

-   What are some benefits of using credit cards? What are the
    drawbacks?

**Handout 9.4: Credit Cards (Cont'd.)**

**Credit History: What is it?**

A credit history is a picture of your financial life. It based on the
bills you pay and the debts that you have. Your credit report will show
how well you pay your bills on time and to which companies you owe
money. The report contains information from banks, merchants, and other
creditors.

Other information that appears in a credit report:

-   Your name, Social Security number, and date of birth.

-   Current and previous addresses.

-   Information about your employers, current and previous.

-   A list of your accounts (if any) that have been referred to a
    collection agency.

-   Your payment history with major credit cards, department store
    charge accounts, and loan payments.

-   Inquiries made about you over the last several years, and whether or
    not you were granted credit.

-   Public record information: Bankruptcies, foreclosures, tax problems,
    etc.

    Credit History: What's it Used For?

    Banks and other creditors look at your credit history to determine
    if they should lend you money and at what interest rate. So if you
    want to get a loan and get it at the best price (interest rate),
    start working towards a strong credit history.

**Handout 9.4: Credit Cards (Cont'd.)**

**Building a Better Credit History**[^2]

**Do:**

-   Open a bank account (savings or checking), and use it responsibly.
    This is the first step in establishing your financial history.

-   If you have services in your name (telephone, gas, and electric),
    make sure you pay them in full and on time.

-   Apply for a credit card. Responsible use will help you build a good
    credit history. If you have been denied a credit card in the past,
    you may want to investigate a secured credit card, where you put a
    predetermined amount of money in an account as a deposit in the
    bank. The secured card can be used in the same way as a credit card
    with the same convenience and payment flexibility. It\'s a great
    \"starter card\" and helps you establish a credit history.

-   Gasoline companies and retail stores offer their own credit cards.
    Responsible use of these can also help you build a credit history.

-   Pay on time for any loans and credit accounts each month. At least
    pay the minimum, if there is one.

-   Review your credit report carefully, on a regular basis, to make
    sure it\'s accurate.

-   You may be eligible to obtain a free credit report from Experian at
    http://[www.experian.com/product/consumer/unemployed.html](http://www.experian.com/product/consumer/unemployed.html)

-   If debt has gotten out of control, seek help from a credit counselor
    who can help you consolidate and prioritize your debt.

Do Not:

-   Do not overdraw your bank account. It\'s a bad way to begin your
    credit history.

-   Do not miss payments on bills or loans. Even late payments count
    against you.

-   Do not let other people use your bank account, gasoline card or
    store credit card.

-   Do not forget about recurring bills on your credit card, like
    subscriptions or club dues.

-   Do not leave utilities (gas, water, phone, electric) in your name if
    you move. If it\'s in your name, it's your responsibility.

**Handout 9.5: Opening a Bank Account**

######### Why to Open a Bank Account & What to Consider When Choosing a Bank

A bank account is the simplest, safest way to manage your finances.
Whether it's a savings account or a checking account, it allows you to
build good credit in a number of ways:

-   Just establishing a bank account is a great way to begin building a
    solid credit history.

-   It allows you to save money, and in circumstances with accrued
    interest, to increase it.

-   A checking account allows you to more easily pay bills and track
    expenses.

-   Responsible use of a checking account or an Automatic Teller Machine
    (ATM) card will reflect favorably in your credit report.

-   A good bank can help you manage your money, saving you both time and
    hassle.

**When choosing a bank, consider the following factors:**[^3]

-   **Location and Hours of Operation:** Convenience is important.
    However, do not choose a bank based solely on these factors; lower
    fees may be available.

-   **"Relationship Banking:"** Banks may encourage you to have all your
    accounts and credit with them in relationship banking, but it might
    be more economical to use separate banks.

-   **Minimum Balances & Maintenance Fees:** Often if you keep a certain
    amount of money in the bank, then you do not have to pay a fee.

-   **Charges per Transaction:** In addition to monthly maintenance
    fees, some banks charge a fee for each check you write or for
    visiting a teller or an ATM. Be sure to ask.

-   **ATMs:** Look out for fees connected to ATMs. Also, one needs to
    keep track of withdrawals from ATM machines to prevent an overdraw
    account. If you think this might be a problem, you may want to
    consider not having an ATM card.

[^1]: Exercises on Budgeting and Rent To Own have been adapted from the
    August 2000 draft of "Making Your Money Count;" a joint publication
    of The National Endowment for Financial Education and The Enterprise
    Foundation, with permission from The Enterprise Foundation.

[^2]: From "Simple Steps to Building Credit,"
    http://www.creditalk.com/do_don't.html

[^3]: From the Better Business Bureau, "Choosing a Bank,"
    www.newyork.bbb.org/library/publications/subrep98.html