Ceremony set for graduates of Dougherty County financial literacy program

ALBANY – The “Dollars Makes Sense” Program is a vision that came to fruition after a meeting between Dougherty County Commissioner Anthony Jones and Mike Lawson, a commercial banker with Ameris Bank.

The collaboration grew once Albany Technical College became a partner in the relationship. An April 4 graduation ceremony will recognize students who have completed the five-week course focused on mastering the fundamentals of financial literacy.

“We believe that financial literacy is the key to unlocking doors to a brighter future, and our graduates are proof of that,” said Jones, who represents commission District 6, “Their dedication to learning about finances is a big step towards a brighter financial future.”

Participants have delved deep into the three pillars of financial wisdom: credit, banking and savings, and home purchase, Jones said. Through engaging in class sessions, they have gained invaluable insights into managing credit reports, forging meaningful relationships with financial institutions, mastering the art of saving and navigating the intricate process of purchasing a home.

“Our team tailored these classes to encompass everything from credit repair and realistic budgeting, to obtaining a personal loan and purchasing a home,” Ameris’ Albany Market President Chris Misamore said. “Partnering with constituents and organizations in our community helped bring this program to life, and citizens in the Albany community are already seeing the results of their commitment to the program, with pre-approvals for a home loan, increased savings and obtaining a loan to start their first small business.

“Ameris Bank Albany is proud to be giving back to the betterment of our community and truly fulfilling our purpose.”

The program graduation will be held at 6 p.m. on April 4 at the Northwest Library, 2507 Dawson Road.

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