Financial Empowerment
Building Financial Stability and Economic Security
Free, one-on-one financial coaching and resources that help immigrants and refugees build lasting financial security.
Welcome to LSI’s Financial Empowerment Services — where every step toward financial stability is met with guidance and support.
Building financial security in a new country can be challenging, especially when navigating an unfamiliar banking system, credit process, or repayment obligations. LSI’s Financial Empowerment Services empower communities as they begin or continue their journey to financial stability and economic security across Iowa. Through personalized coaching, workshops, and connections to trusted resources, LSI walks beside you every step of the way.
How We Can Help You
All of our services are free of charge.
Matched Savings and Credit-Building Loans
Get connected to low-interest or free matched savings programs and grants for auto, education, immigrant, and personal loans.
Debt Repayment Guidance and Support
Many refugees arrive with IOM travel loans and other debts to repay. LSI guides clients through connecting with debtors and setting up electronic repayment plans.
Disability-Inclusive Financial Guidance
LSI partners with the Evelyn K. Davis Center for Working Families / Polk County Empowerment Center and the National Disability Institute to offer trained counseling for individuals with disabilities, including help navigating benefits requirements and setting financial stability goals.
Credit Counseling and Credit Soft Pull
Get connected to credit counseling and a credit soft pull to better understand your credit standing without impacting your score.
Financial Literacy
Learn from anywhere. LSI offers in-person and virtual workshops on a variety of important financial topics.
Asset-Specific Training
LSI offers asset training and support in partnership with an array of organizations, whether you're purchasing your first vehicle or business asset, or investing in a retirement plan or education for yourself or your child. LSI is proud to lead as a Community Champion with Prosperity Now on child investment account education.
Banking
Access free resources and guidance to navigate the U.S. banking system and find the best bank products for you. LSI is a proud member of Bank On Iowa.
Financial Literacy Workshop
Learn about money and finances in the U.S. Participants learn how to set financial goals, how banks can help you achieve them, and how to develop good savings habits. The workshop also covers how credit and loans work in the U.S. and the difference between credit and debit. v
Home Buyer Workshop
Prepare for one of the biggest financial steps of your life with guidance on the home buying process, offered in partnership with area housing organizations.
Questions or ready to register? Email immigrantresources@lsiowa.org. Ask about interpretation when you register, or contact us in advance to learn when a workshop is offered next.
Free Financial Coaching
We provide one-on-one financial coaching for low- to moderate-income individuals and entrepreneurs. We can also help with a credit soft pull to give you a clearer picture of where you stand.
We are a proud member of the Credit Builder Alliance.
Interested in Our Financial Empowerment Services?
To get in touch and learn more about our programs, please fill out our contact form. An LSI team member will respond to you soon.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. All Financial Empowerment Services are free of charge.
No. Interpretation is available — just ask about interpretation when you register for a workshop or coaching session.
Immigrants and refugees across Iowa working toward financial stability are welcome, including those managing debt, building credit, or planning for a major purchase like a home.
No. A soft pull lets us review your credit standing without impacting your credit score.
Email immigrantresources@lsiowa.org to register or to ask when the next workshop is offered.
OUR IMPACT
When individuals and families gain financial stability, our whole community grows stronger.
Financial Stability
Individuals and families build the savings, credit, and confidence needed for long-term financial security.
Debt Management
Clients get connected to manageable repayment plans and guidance for debts, including IOM travel loans.
Economic Opportunity
Stronger financial foundations open doors to homeownership, education, and economic opportunities across Iowa.