Oakland County Michigan Works! is launching series a free year-long workshop classes starting next month to promote making smart decisions with money.

At no cost, the financial fitness classes are open to anyone who is interested in better managing their finances. Subject matters are expected to be hosted by national, state and regional experts and range some budgeting, investing, credit scores, paying for higher education, retirement planning, homeownership, elderly care and more.

“As we emerge from the pandemic, financial wellness is at the top of so many people’s minds and getting sound advice from leading experts in the field is important as we all move forward,” said Oakland County Executive David Coulter in a press release. “I’m excited to see Oakland County Michigan Works! expand its popular week of free workshops into a full-year schedule. There really is something for everyone and I hope people take full advantage of this opportunity.”

The program will begin on April 6, with “Realizing the American Dream: Achieving Home Ownership” and 11 more workshops are scheduled during the month:

April 8 — Why Debt is Not the Problem

April 9 — Saving Money on Groceries (Budgeting)

April 13 — Recovering from the Pandemic – Financial Planning for Gen X, Y, and Z

April 15 — Foiling Identity Theft

April 16 — Five Money Questions for Women

April 20 — Learn How to Position the Student for 100% Funding (Paying for Higher Education)

April 22 — Writing a Business Plan

April 23 — Debt: Both Useful and Dangerous

April 27 — Preparing your Investment Portfolio: Retirement and Taxes

April 29 — A Dollar Stretches Further Than You May Think

April 30 — Recognizing and Avoiding Predatory Lending

For the full schedule of workshops through June and registration links OaklandCountyMiWorks.com/FinancialFitness. Directions for logging into the virtual workshops are sent to registered participants.

“Financial wellness not only enhances a person’s quality of life, but also contributes to employability,” said Oakland County Michigan Works! Director Jennifer Llewellyn said in the release. “We’ve brought together an impressive lineup of speakers to share their knowledge and insights on accomplishing these goals.” — M.K.