PURPOSE OF COUNSELING
To address financial problems that have become apparent due to collection calls at work
KEY POINTS OF DISCUSSION
1. It is my understanding that your recent divorce affected your ability to pay your rent and that credit card debt and car repair bills have compounded the problem.
2. Collection calls at work are an embarrassment for you and disrupt operations for everyone else. You must face this problem and resolve it as soon as possible.
3. There is no shame in asking for help. Most of us have gone through this and we realize that sometimes debt problems are due to circumstances beyond your control and are not necessarily your fault.
4. Failure to organize your bills, establish a savings account and manage a budget will affect almost everything you do for the rest of your life. It is extremely important that you master this skill.
5. Paying bills on time is important. It affects your credit history which is an accurate measurement of a person's integrity, maturity and ability.
6. Learn from this experience and save for the future. You must have good credit. Credit is like an invisible savings account. It's a virtual reputation for being honest and repaying any money loaned. If your car breaks down, even if you don't have money in your savings account, you can charge it with just a signature.
PLAN OF ACTION
1. I made an appointment for you at Community Service Center for Budget Counseling and Debt Management at 0900 Thursday, 2 May 2013. The counselor will work with you to develop an appropriate plan of attack. If you need to change the appointment, their number is 526-4590.
2. I don't expect an overnight cure. Due to their nature, financial problems take time to overcome and I know it will take time. The important thing is to get started.
3. Think twice before assuming any new debt. If you need advice, I am always available.
4. I will ask the First Sergeant to call the ACS to see if you are eligible for financial relief.
LEADER RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Research and make financial counseling resources available to SPC Carol.
2. Call ACS and see if he is eligible for Emergency Relief.
3. Follow up in 7 days to discuss plan of action and assess its effectiveness.
4. Follow up in 30 days to ensure plan is practical and working.
