NORTHERN CALIFORNIA – Manage Your Money Week (MYMW), organized by State Controller John Chiang, his Financial Literacy Advisory Committee and now more than 190 partner organizations that promote financial literacy, will take place Oct. 18 to 25, with more than 130 free money management events throughout the state.

The project links Californians who need financial services with government agencies, nonprofit organizations, unions, schools, financial institutions and financial management associations that are hosting free events about money management, including opening a checking account and managing a budget, credit counseling, first-time home buying, planning for retirement, avoiding financial scams and starting a business.

Events such as financial wellness for women, making smart money goals, understanding credit reports and scores, repairing credit, preparing for home ownership, funding retirement, personalized advice, financial education for college students, how to talk to kids about finances, developing a savings plan, military financial readiness, and building and keeping a budget will be held at libraries, community colleges, community centers, churches, city halls and other venues throughout the state.

A number of events over the week will be available at Mendocino College; see http://www.sco.ca.gov/eo_mymw_hub_partners.html for details.