Connecticut residents are encouraged to take practical steps toward greater financial stability during America Saves Week, April 6–10, 2026. This national campaign helps individuals and families build and sustain healthy financial habits. Since 2007, America Saves Week has served as both a celebration and a call to action, encouraging people to commit to saving successfully. In Connecticut, the CT Saves coalition—coordinated by UConn Extension—has participated since the campaign’s early years, working with partners statewide to improve financial capability and economic well-being.
“America Saves Week is about turning intention into action,” said Faye Griffiths-Smith, statewide personal finance educator with UConn Extension and Connecticut Saves Coalition leader. “Small, consistent steps—like setting aside even a few dollars or creating a simple plan—can lead to lasting financial stability. Through CT Saves, we aim to make those steps practical and accessible for everyone.”
During Connecticut Saves Week, UConn Extension is proud to support individuals and families across the state with research-based tools to build healthier financial futures. Whether you’re setting a savings goal, building an emergency fund, or finding ways to stretch your food budget, our educators are here to help with practical, real-life strategies that work. We’re pleased to be working with several partners on events throughout the week:
Featured Event: Connecticut Saves Week Panel Discussion
CT Saves will host a free panel discussion on Thursday, April 9 at 12:00 PM ET, focused on building strong financial habits through practical, achievable steps. Panelists from CT Saves partner organizations—including UConn Extension; Better Business Bureau, Connecticut; Chelsea Groton Bank; Liberty Bank; and Advancing Connecticut Together (ACT)—will share tools and strategies to help individuals take control of their financial futures.
Event Details: Chelsea Groton Bank,904 Poquonnock Road, Groton, CT
– 11:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Lunch & Networking (in-person)
– 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Panel Discussion
– 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM: Extended Q&A
Lunch will be provided for in-person attendees, and a virtual option is available. Register at https://cvent.me/2oxNdr
Residents are encouraged to participate throughout the week by setting savings goals, exploring educational resources, and engaging with CT Saves partners and events.
Dealing with Debt Workshop
Finding it difficult managing your bills? Join us at the New Haven Public Library—Wilson Branch on Tuesday, April 7th at 6 pm for this workshop in celebration of America Saves Week and Connecticut Saves Week. Register now at: https://nhfpl.libcal.com/event/15762893
Financial Survival Skills for College Life and Beyond UConn students, join us on Wednesday, April 8th from 5-6 pm in the OSS Lounge on the UConn Storrs campus for this engaging session that will cover some of the basic skills you need to manage your money effectively. This workshop presented by the UConn Extension Financial Education Program will include a helpful resource guide for participants.
Financial Literacy for Teens Thursday, April 16th
Teens! Join us to learn how to make the most of your money! Today, AI and apps are creating more opportunities – and more pitfalls – than ever before. The UConn Extension Financial Education Program will present a fun, interactive workshop that will help you learn how to budget, save, and invest in the digital age. Free for ages 13 and over. This is a Zoom program. Please register to get the link at djohnson@danburylibrary.org
Share Your Financial Story
With this year’s theme, “Own Your Financial Story,” Connecticut residents are invited to share personal experiences that can inspire others—whether paying off debt, reaching a savings goal, or creating a plan for the future. Participants can record a short video (60–90 seconds) and post it on Facebook or X, tagging CT Saves (Facebook.com/CTSaves or @CtSavesCampaign) and using #CTSaves2026 and #ASW2026. Selected videos will be professionally produced and featured as part of the April campaign. Participants whose stories are selected will receive a $50 gift card.
America Saves also encourages individuals to take the America Saves Pledge, committing to a personalized savings goal and plan. Participants receive ongoing tips, reminders, and resources to stay on track. Connecticut Saves is an America Saves partner. This statewide coalition led by UConn Extension promotes financial education and encourages positive saving behaviors through partnerships, outreach, and community-based initiatives. For more information, visit s.uconn.edu/ctsavescoalition or call 203.407.3160.