What we learned about money this year

Money touches every part of our lives, from big dreams to everyday decisions. So we asked a few team members: What did you learn about money this year? Their answers were honest, inspiring and full of motivation as we close out the year. 

 

 

“How I’m saving for my daughter’s first vehicle as a single parent”

-Amanda Rodriguez, Digital Servicing Manager, member since 2015

Being a single parent to three amazing kids—Hannah, Victor III and Jacob—has taught me a lot about resilience, planning and creativity. With two currently in high school, I’ve had to face a financial reality: they’ll all need vehicles, and those costs will come one after another, along with all the extra high school expenses. 

At first, I thought financing a vehicle might be the way to go. But after looking at the long-term impact and realizing my current savings pattern wouldn’t meet our timeline, I knew I had to make a change. So this year, I revamped my strategy and added three new tools to help me save smarter—not harder.
 

1. Homecoming Mums
   I started making homecoming mums as a side hustle. It’s something I enjoy, and it’s become a great way to bring in extra income. Every dollar I earn from mums goes directly into a dedicated savings account for my kids’ vehicles. It’s seasonal work, but it adds up quickly and gives me a sense of pride knowing I’m crafting something meaningful while building their future.
2. $150 from Payroll
   To make saving consistent and effortless, I set up an automatic transfer of $150 from each paycheck straight into savings. It’s a simple move, but it’s made a big difference. I treat it like a non-negotiable bill, because investing in my kids’ independence is just as important as any other expense.
3. Rebate Apps
   Groceries are a big part of any family’s budget, so I started using rebate apps to cut costs. The money I save through these apps is immediately moved from my checking account into savings. Since I would’ve spent that money anyway, it’s like finding hidden cash in my everyday routine.

I’ve built a system that works for my family. It’s not always easy, but every step brings us closer to our goal, and I cannot wait to see my kids drive off into their future.

 

 

 

“Money can be a tool for freedom”

-Destiny Juarez, Business Development Account Manager, member since 2014
 

One of the most meaningful lessons I’ve learned about money came while volunteering with my husband at the Christy Hope Gala. Hearing the stories of survivors reminded me that financial education isn’t just about budgets and investments—it’s about empowerment. That’s why I pursued my Financial Education Instructor certification: to help others gain the confidence to take control of their financial futures. Money can be a tool for freedom, and teaching others how to use it wisely has become one of the most rewarding parts of my journey.

 

 

“Financial wellness isn’t just a feature”

-Vanessa Frias, Digital Product Manager, member since 2005
 

Managing financial wellness products, like credit monitoring, budget and spending analysis, has transformed how I view financial well-being. These tools aren't just features, they empower members to make informed choices and build confidence in their financial future. At Credit Human, our mission to improve quality of life guides every decision, reminding us that our digital solutions are about our members. In my role as Digital Services Product Manager, I take pride in offering solutions that truly make a difference in members' lives, helping them navigate their financial journey with clarity and dignity.

 

Your money story matters too

Money isn’t just math. It’s choices, security and symbolic of the life you want to build. At Credit Human, we’re real people with real money stories and we care about yours too. If you have a goal you’re working towards, and want support getting there, stop by a Financial Health Center so we can walk beside you.