Military Saves Week begins March 8 Published Feb. 26, 2010 By Airman 1st Class Staci Miller 52 Fighter Wing Public Affairs SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- "I'm living so far beyond my income that we may almost be said to be living apart," said E.E. Cummings, American poet, painter, essayist, author and playwright. Mr. Cummings is not alone - approximately 43 percent of Americans are spending more money than they make. In an effort to combat this problem, Spangdahlem kicks off its Military Saves Week March 8-12 as part of the national Military Saves Program. Military Saves is a year-round national campaign persuading, motivating and encouraging military families to save money monthly. This year, the focus is on pledging. By taking the "Saver Pledge," Sabers can commit to saving for a number of different goals, including debt payment, retirement, buying a vehicle, and creating an emergency fund. "Think about it, do you have $1000 in a savings account?" said Jason Gunnarson, Airman and Family Readiness Center community readiness consultant. "We've noticed through Air Force Aid Society that a lot of people don't have an emergency fund." Once the pledger is committed, Military Saves will send out updates, newsletters and coaching tips to help people meet their goals. "Research has shown that if you write something down and are reminded frequently you are more likely to accomplish the goal," Mr. Gunnarson said. The A&FRC is assigning a point of contact to each unit to assist in the drive to save. Sabers interested in participating in the program can obtain a pledge form from unit POCs, or they can contact the A&FRC. The A&FRC is offering a variety of finance-based classes during Military Saves Week. These classes include: Building your Financial Foundation - March 8 Home Buying Workshop - March 9 Keeping Track of your Finances - March 10 Improving your Credit Scores - March 11 Understanding Mutual Funds - March 12 Special savings offers will be available to participants. For more information or to sign up, visit the A&FRC in building 360 or call 452-6422.