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Carisa juggles a lot of roles: Single mom to a 9-year-old daughter, high school and university teacher, grad student, research assistant, Uber and Lyft driver and educational support tied to a local nonprofit. With Project Money, she has been able to go from surviving to thriving – financially and holistically.
Marco, a Summit Branch Manager in Franklin with 10 years of banking experience, takes pride in everything he does – stretching back to his very first job cutting grass. He can’t wait to help Carisa take action for her goals and build financial security for her family.Q: What’s the biggest thing that Project Money does for people?
A: The coaching, motivation and resources give them what they need to look at their finances in a way they haven’t before. This experience also shows them they really can achieve their financial goals, and that helps them feel freer and enjoy life more.
Q: Any overall tips for Carisa’s journey?
A: Commitment gets you started, but consistency keeps you going.
Q: To you, what’s the one financial “must?”
A: Have multiple sub-savings accounts for different goals and purposes – for example, separate ones labeled for bills, emergency savings, fun savings or whatever fits your priorities.
Q: Have you had any “Aha” moments in your own financial journey?
A: Yes, in my early 20s, when I realized the impact of budgeting. Tracking spending can be the biggest factor in breaking out of living paycheck to paycheck and instead living the life you deserve and desire.
Q: What’s something you wish you could tell everyone about finances?
A: Income is never the problem – spending is. The key is to control your controllables.
Q: What do you love most about what you do at Summit?
A: Everything! I fell in love with Summit right in my orientation, when I heard how all employees (not just managers) are empowered to do what’s right for members.
Q: Fun fact about you?
A: I love to write…songs, stories, poems and more.