Conference for fathers focuses on money matters

 

By Felix Hoover

For YourNewsColumbus

Posted 09-13-09

 

In good economic times, many parents don't think to discuss finances with their children, sometimes leaving the younger generation ill-prepared to manage money when they're on their own.

 Failure to have such talks in tough times can create even greater, more immediate tensions and misunderstandings that burden households, said Andre Lampkins, manager of community education & engagement for the state treasurer's office.

 On Friday, Sept.18, a first-of-its-kind statewide Fiscally Fit Fathers Conference will bring together dads from across the state to share strategies and resources to make it through the nation's economic recession.

 The conference is the next stop on State Treasurer Kevin L. Boyce's Smart Money Choices series.

 "We need to have even uncomfortable discussions on the financial situation," Lampkins said.

 Basic money management, such as giving children regular allowances and learning to save regularly, even if only small amounts, are some of the strategies to be presented.

 All of the presenters are dads because "we wanted fathers to hear from fathers," Martin said.

 The day-long event will be held at Columbus State Community College's Workforce Development Center, 315 Cleveland Ave. The opening session will be at 8 a.m., followed by workshops, lunch and a guest motivational speaker.

 The conference is free and open to the public, but advance registration is required.

 The deadline to register on-line or via telephone is 5 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 16. To register on-line, visit: www.ohiotreasurer.gov and click on Smart Money Choices or call the Ohio Treasury at 1-800-228-1102.