Nearly 100 financial education professionals representing 52 organizations are attending the second annual "Common Wealth Symposium" to learn new skills and share best practices.

"Economic forces are pushing many working families to the limit. It's costing more and more just to put fuel in the tank and food on the table; some are barely staying afloat," Secretary of Banking Steve Kaplan said. "A family's ability to manage money responsibly and make well-informed financial decisions is crucial to weathering this storm.

"More than ever, we need to support organizations that are in communities providing programs to help families make the most of their incomes and get on the path towards financial independence."

A number of state agencies are participating in the symposium, including the Department of Insurance, Pennsylvania Securities Commission, Treasury Department, Department of Community and Economic Development, Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency, Commonwealth Libraries, and the Office of Attorney General.

Among the highlights of this year's symposium is the unveiling of a new financial education curriculum designed for families with young children. "Right on the Money" uses children's books to introduce financial concepts to kids ages 5-7 and provides parents with the tools and knowledge to improve their own money management skills.

"Right on the Money" was developed by the Office of Financial Education, the Heinz Endowments, and Penn State Cooperative Extension. Free copies of the curriculum will be provided to symposium attendees. -- Pennsylvania Department of Banking