BPL Q&A: 2023 Holiday Spending Tips from Judy Woods of Operation Hope

 

Judy Woods, Financial Wellbeing Coach at Operation HOPE in the Central Library downtown. 

Birmingham, Ala. - Black Friday will soon be upon us, the unofficial kickoff of the 2023 Holiday Season. Before going out and over-splurging on gifts for your loved ones, you may want to take advantage of a free financial advice from Judy Woods of Operation HOPE, located inside the Central Library in downtown Birmingham. 

Prior to joining Operation HOPE two years ago, Judy worked in the non-profit arena as a Financial Life Skills Coordinator and Financial Stability Specialist for 19 years. As a statewide community resource specialist, Judy has coordinated financial and homebuyer education workshops for seniors, community partners, corporations, municipalities, and other non-profits.

Her message is clear: "Financial wellness is not about money; it’s about decision-making," Woods said. "That philosophy is central to the objective of programs that help build awareness of where one is financially, provides education for establishing financial goals and empowers them to change their behavior to achieve those goals through the choices they make." 

In a Q&A with BPL, Judy talked about her experience as a financial wellbeing coach and HUD Certified Housing Counselor. Judy also shared her passion for helping individuals achieve their goals and eagerness to be the change she desires to see in others. 

 BPL: For those unfamiliar, explain what Operation Hope does.

Judy Woods: Since its inception in 1992, the mission of Operation HOPE, Inc. (HOPE) is silver rights empowerment, making free enterprise work for everyone. It promotes financial dignity through the delivery of financial inclusion and education tools to underserved communities. 

Operation HOPE’s goals are to create stakeholders, convert the unbanked to banking clients, and to increase credit scores to a bankable level, reduce debt, homeownership counseling and build savings. HOPE believes that by providing financial literacy, we empower individuals and give them financial dignity, which leads to financial inclusion.

BPL: Is there a charge for Operation Hope's services? 

Judy: This is a no-cost, confidential service offering. 

BPL: What are some of the biggest mistakes people make during holiday shopping time?

Judy: Failure to plan-and not having a spending plan. Emotional spending on Black Friday. Last minute shopping and putting everything on a credit card on Black Friday and Cyber Monday. 

BPL: How can people reach you to make a coaching appointment for Operation Hope?

Judy: Go to www.operationhope.org (Click Get Started) and follow the prompts. Select Judy Woods as your coach. Or reach out directly (205) 478-0557 or email judy.woods@operationhope.org 

BPL: The holidays can be a stressful time for those shopping for friends and family. Share some tips on how people can not overdo it during the holidays 

Judy: Start with what you value, what the holidays mean to you. 

Always shop with a list and do your homework to determine the average cost of items.

Minimize your spending sprees. Set expectations.

 Start early and hold onto receipts.

Holiday on a budget tips from Judy Woods of Operation Hope

 Hosting a holiday get-together on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the quality of your event. Remember, the holidays are about coming together and making lasting memories with loved ones.

• Plan ahead Start by setting a budget for your event, which should include everything from food and drinks to decorations and entertainment. 

• Embrace DIY decorations DIY (Do-it-yourself) decorations can be both cost-effective and add a personal touch to your gathering.

• Keep it simple Instead of serving a fancy meal, consider hosting a potluck party or buffet-style dinner where each guest brings a dish to share.

• Be mindful of drink choices Create a special holiday punch that’s unique to your gathering, or you can suggest that your guests bring their own beverages (BYOB). 

Provide entertainment.    Consider low-cost or free activities like playing board games, hosting a movie night, or organizing a gift exchange.

Complete a Spending Challenge Cost Estimate -if you fail to plan, you are planning to fail.