Hands signing will

Estate Planning

When an illness, injury, or unexpected death occurs, it may create unforeseen complications. Without a plan in place, decisions about your health, children, or financial assets may be left in the hands of a court rather than a trusted family member or friend.  The best way to avoid the legal red tape and uncertainty that…

Young mixed-race couple friends boyfriend and girlfriend students spending time together on romantic date sitting on green lawn grass in city park walking outdoors. Love and relationship

Dating on a Budget

Dating can be fun, but it is often expensive. Whether you are just starting out in a relationship or having “date night” with your longtime partner, keep these cost-saving tips in mind:  Plan ahead. While a spur-of-the-moment date is great, it may be easier to keep costs down by scheduling in advance. If you have…

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Money Smart Actions

Do you feel overwhelmed by financial decisions? Getting back to basics can help you maximize the power of your income. Try these tips:  Start an emergency savings account. Car repairs, medical emergencies, and last-minute necessities are all budget busters. Having an emergency savings account that is separate from your primary savings may help you weather…

Loving Biracial Family at Home

Creating Life Balance

Being pulled in too many directions may have your feeling out of balance. Here are some ways to find a middle ground: Acknowledge imbalance. Finding balance starts with admitting that something in your life is out of whack. Recognizing that you need to make a change is a first and necessary step.  Ask questions. Evaluating…

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Maintaining Your Emotional Wellbeing

Maintaining your emotional wellbeing is a balancing act. Stress in any one area of your life — such as finances, work, family, relationships, or general uncertainty — may impact your ability to be present in other areas. If you are struggling, try these tips:  Define your purpose. Consider what motivates you to engage in daily…

Sad man sitting in the living room drinking alcohol

Alcohol or Drugs: Getting Help

Have you ever wondered if you drink too much or have a problem with drugs? Answering “yes” to one or more of these questions may indicate that you are at risk. Do you worry that you drink too often? Do you binge drink or struggle to stop drinking once you start? Do you use illegal…

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Adding More Steps into Your Day

Walking is one of the best ways to incorporate more exercise into your daily routine. The benefits of walking include:  Increased energy, improved mood, and reduced stress Decreased risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cancer Improved muscle tone and fitness Consider these ways to work more steps into your day:  Park at the back…

Emergency Vehicles at Night

Violent Events in the News

Hearing about violent events in the news is often disturbing. Reports of mass shootings, terrorist attacks and other violent incidents may leave you feeling sad, angry, or afraid. Common reactions include: Feeling vulnerable and insecure. Violent incidents may affect your sense of personal safety and security. You may find yourself worrying more about family members…

African American mother consoling her sad girl at home.

Talking to Children About Violence

While many parents will try to protect their children from news about violent events, it may be difficult to filter out all knowledge. Children may catch glimpses of images in the news or hearabout the violent incident from friends or via overheard conversations. Stories about children who were impacted may be especially frightening or stressful.…