Mark Shuttleworth interviewed Karyn Rando, Director of Counseling Services at Consumer Credit Counseling Services of Rochester.
-She explained that they are a Rochester non-profit that is focused on the financial wellness of families and individuals by providing them with a certified professional for confidential counseling, education, and other solutions to meet their financial goals. They provide this service at no cost to the family or individual.
-They have a debt management program, working with people to consolidate their debt and working with a variety of lenders to help folks get on a payment plan that is manageable. They are able to get creditors to accept lower monthly payments because creditors have seen the success of their programs.
-They offer credit and budget counseling
-Karyn said all of their counselors are trained and receive continuous training
-She talked about the House Counseling program which is designed to help people stay in their home instead of losing it because of a debt issue
-They offer Bankruptcy Counseling. Karyn said they try to help people look at all of their options and possible alternatives before declaring bankruptcy. There is a law that requires individuals to work with an agency like CCCSR before officially declaring bankruptcy.
-They provide all sorts of community workshops, providing financial education with in person and online training programs
-She encouraged people to give them a call and just hear what their options might be if they are struggling with debt.