Financial Foundations

Mastering Debt and Credit

This course, presented by Heartland Bank, is designed to demystify the complexities of personal finance and empower participants with actionable strategies for long-term stability

The curriculum begins with the Anatomy of Credit, breaking down the mechanics of borrowing and the differences between revolving and installment loans. From there, students dive deep into the FICO Formula and credit reporting, learning exactly how the "Big Three" bureaus evaluate financial reputations and how to effectively dispute inaccuracies. To move beyond theory, the course provides a roadmap for Strategic Debt Management, teaching participants how to calculate their debt-to-income ratios and identify the warning signs of a financial "danger zone."

The syllabus also covers the practical, day-to-day use of financial tools, specifically focusing on the Responsible Use of Credit Cards by explaining statement cycles and the mathematical pitfalls of minimum payments. Finally, the program bridges the gap between management and growth through Future Planning, highlighting essential banking resources, the necessity of emergency funds, and the steps required to prepare for major life milestones like homeownership or entrepreneurship. This course ensures that every attendee leaves with a clear understanding of how to make credit work for them rather than against them.

Your presenters:

Callihan Benson is the Financial Center Manager at Heartland Bank, a Division of German American Bank, in Pickerington. She has 18 years of experience in retail banking. She is the treasurer of the Tri-County Area Realty Association, and a member of the Pickerington Lion’s Club. Callihan loves building relationships and helping her customers save time and money. When she is not at work, she is with her husband, Chris, of 17 years and son, Cooper, who is 11.

Since 1995, Brent Diebert has assisted countless clients on their journeys to become homeowners. As an integral part of the Heartland Bank Mortgage team, Brent is committed to guiding his clients with confidence through the loan process. While explaining the lending procedure, products and terminology, his goal is to find the perfect loan for his clients’ needs. Even though homeowners may think about purchasing or refinancing a home only a few times in their lives, Brent thinks about it daily to be prepared with advice for the biggest financial transaction most individuals make. He is a board member of Leadership Worthington, supporter of Worthington Robotics, and the past Co-chair of the Affordable Housing Committee at Columbus REALTORS®. Brent is also a licensed continuing education provider often focusing on home affordability topics with real estate agents throughout Ohio.

If you need accommodations for a class or event, contact communications@pickeringtonlibrary.org or call 614-837-4104 ext. 221. 

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