Financial Empowerment Center

The FEC empowers low-income residents to achieve lasting financial well-being — all at no cost to participants.

The Financial Empowerment Center (FEC) is a collaborative initiative led by United Way Monterey County that brings together financial coaching, business skills development and business support services, housing navigation and stabilization services, and employment and new business support services that are delivered by experienced partners in a single, coordinated system. Partner agencies work one-on-one with clients to build capacity, set goals, create action plans, and stay accountable. 

Services are delivered through a mix of in-person , remote or hybrid formats to increase access across Monterey County. The model incorporates national best practices, adapted to the local context.

HOW THE FEC WORKS 

The FEC emphasizes warm handoffs, care coordination, and closed-loop referrals so partners remain connected to outcomes.

Clients may seek support from the FEC through United Way Monterey County or through partner referrals. Additional resources are amplified by services offered from the 59 agencies from the Smart Referral Network.

 

 

SERVICES OFFERED:

 

 

One-on-One Financial Coaching

 

One-on-One Financial Coaching

 

 

Group Education and Workshops

 

Short-Term or Longer-Term Support Pathways

 

 

Entrepreneur Capacity Building

 

Warm Referrals to Specialized Partner Services

CORE FOCUS AREAS

Financial Stability and Asset Building

Income, employment, and career advancement

Housing stability and benefits navigation

Small business and self-employment support (in partnership with the Monterey County Business Council)

 

FEC PARTNERS

Contact Information 

Lynn Foden, 
Director of Financial Stability
(831) 318-1997
lynn.foden@unitedwaymcca.org