CL&P Continues to Empower Women at Annual Money Conference

In today's economy, the 2008 Connecticut Money Conference for Women, held November 8, 2008 in Cromwell, may have been the most important in the event's seven-year history. Co-hosted by the YWCA of the Hartford Region and the Office of State Treasurer Denise L. Nappier, the conference, presented free of charge for several hundred participants each year, empowers women with important concepts and tools to help them manage their financial future.

The returning keynote speaker, Dee Lee, a certified financial planner and radio talk show host, is a dynamic advocate for women's financial education. The event also offered participants individualized workshops and a financial expo.

As returning sponsors, CL&P and Yankee Gas provided practical tools for saving money and energy through its Money Matter$ budgeting and Energy Matter$ conservation workshops. The women were also given information about CL&P and Yankee Gas energy assistance programs and services.

"CL&P has played a key role in supporting this important event for women, and we are grateful for their involvement in educating women toward financial empowerment. The two workshops they offer are favorites of our participants," said YWCA Marketing Manager Alisa Dzananovic.

The conference also features recognized leaders in the financial services, insurance and investment industries, and nonprofit organizations. Together, they assist participants in designing and implementing personal strategies to help them reach their financial goals.

"Women face unique financial challenges and often fail to plan for their financial future," said Dzananovic. "By attending this conference, participants become better prepared to take charge of their personal money management."

The response of the women who attended the November conference was overwhelmingly positive. For example, 94 percent of attendees reported that they felt more knowledgeable about financial issues after attending the conference; 90 percent said they felt more confident about making financial decisions; and 97 percent said that the conference will make a difference in how they handle financial matters in the future.

"The YWCA is committed to offering an easy-to-understand, welcoming program for the everyday woman," says Dzananovic. "We can't solve everyone's financial problems in one day, but we can get women thinking about these issues, and provide resources that will help them understand their unique financial situation and prepare for the challenges coming their way."

For more information about the Conference, visit www.ctmoneyconferenceforwomen.com.