3 minute read

As we age, it becomes increasingly important to be financially literate and understand the complexities of managing our finances.  Unfortunately, for many seniors, this can be a daunting task.  That's why the Joslyn Center, a senior association and wellness center in Southern California, partnered with First Foundation to offer financial literacy classes to seniors in the area.

The Joslyn Center aims to decrease isolation and increase social interaction for seniors of all backgrounds and abilities.  They provide wellness and educational programs along with a compassionate staff community that works towards providing meaningful experiences and social connections to the aging population in the Desert area.  The center was the first to offer bilingual counseling services to adults in need and is now newly certified as the first Autism Center for Seniors in the US, partnering with the Inland Regional Center to cater to the needs of autistic and sensory-sensitive individuals.

The Aging Mastery Program, in partnership with First Foundation, offers financial literacy classes to seniors at The Joslyn Center.  These classes cover various topics, including identity theft, common scams, elderly financial abuse, IRAs, and financial planning.  The First Foundation's Palm Desert branch team, led by Andrea Durrett, Vice President, and Branch Manager, has committed to teaching a monthly class for the last two years.

The partnership has been a resounding success, with many seniors benefiting from the financial education provided by First Foundation.  Andrea Durrett, Vice President, and Branch Manager, said, "It feels good to give back and make a difference in our valley.  I loved meeting with seniors at the Joslyn Center, providing them with financial education, and, most importantly, discussing targeted scams.  Everyone wants to talk about the latest scam and share their stories.  I also learn and grow from these sessions.  It warms my heart that we are making a difference in our community."

Lizet Soto, a Financial Services Representative, shared her experience teaching a financial education class to seniors.  "A woman who had recently lost her husband joined my class.  She was not involved in their finances and was encouraged to come and learn.  I spent some time talking with her during and after the class.  It felt good to know I was helping her get more comfortable with her finances during a difficult time.”

Giovanni Segura Rodriguez, Client Service Manager, says, we talk about scams and issues they have dealt with.  It feels good to help them understand what is happening and what to look for, so they don't take any losses. " He recalled one class with only three people, and their banking discussions drifted to talking about their lives.  "It was a great experience connecting with people in my community."

Jack Newby, Executive Director of The Joslyn Center, expressed gratitude for the financial education and scam prevention education provided by First Foundation Bank in the Aging Mastery Program.  "Taking care of financial needs and budgeting is essential for older adults, especially those with fixed or limited incomes," he stated.

The partnership between The Joslyn Center and First Foundation demonstrates the importance of collaboration between organizations that strive to improve the lives of the aging population.  The Palm Desert Team is ready to help you learn about finances, so if you're a senior in the area, we look forward to seeing you at the next class!