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City accepts $50,000 legacy‑planning grant to expand Financial Empowerment Center services
Summary
Committee accepted a two‑year $50,000 Legacy Planning implementation grant for the Financial Empowerment Center; the program will provide free wills, trusts and end‑of‑life planning help to homeowners who cannot otherwise afford legal services.
The Community and Economic Development Committee on April 14 accepted a Legacy Planning implementation grant to expand services of the Financial Empowerment Center. Mario Higgins told the committee the Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund had awarded an additional $50,000 for a two‑year implementation phase following an earlier $150,000 award that established the center.
Daryl Johnson, executive director of Riverworks Development Corporation (also referred to as RealWorks Development Corporation during remarks), described the center’s Financial Navigator work that began during the COVID pandemic and said the program delivers one‑on‑one coaching to help residents reduce debt, increase savings and prepare for homeownership. Patricia Aristontuin, the program’s government manager, told the committee Legacy Planning will provide free wills, trusts and end‑of‑life planning for homeowners who otherwise cannot afford legal assistance.
Aristontuin said the Legacy Planning work is not income‑restricted and is intended to ensure homeowners’ titles and estate plans are in order. She told the committee the program will be rolled out publicly in the summer after administrative details are finalized to avoid advertising services before staff are ready to assist residents.
Aldermen moved the grant acceptance forward with no recorded objections. Committee members asked staff to share outreach materials with council offices when the rollout is ready.
