From providing focus, motivation and valuable information to receiving support and a boost in confidence, is how participants described their experience at the Micro Business Institute.

“These classes have kept me focused and on track,” said Rhonda Sears. Aiming to operate an event planning business, she admits, “What I have learned during these 11 weeks is very valuable.”

BUSINESS BEGINNINGS—PCSI Executive Director Cecelia A. Jenkins, MBI participants Myneesha King and Phyllis Evelyn stand with Micro Business Institute Specialist Jasmine Ward during an MBI event.

A project of Pittsburgh Community Services, Inc., the MBI is dedicated to providing the tools for its participants to succeed as entrepreneurs and to become empowered to take charge of their financial future. In operation since early 2010, the MBI has been fostering the development of sustainable micro-businesses geared to stimulate economic development, self-sufficiency and job creation in poverty-stricken neighborhoods in the city of Pittsburgh.

Mortgage delinquencies and foreclosures are at an all time high. It’s shocking to review published statistics about millions of people who’ve fallen behind on their mortgage payments. It’s alarming to read stories about people you don’t know who are struggling to keep their home. It takes on an entirely different perspective when you meet face to face with real people who are on the brink of losing their home.

In the last couple of months, I’ve personally talked to several people who are depressed and scared out of their minds because they’ve fallen behind on their mortgage and they cannot catch up. These are real people whom you see and mingle with everyday.

Last fall, my wife and I decided to downsize our housing and move to something easier to manage. We successfully sold our home of 31 years and looked forward to buying another home that would meet our current and future needs. We are in a buyer’s market and I am sharing our experience because it may be helpful to you, if you anticipate purchasing a home in the near future.

Think before you look

Before we talked with a Realtor or started looking at houses, we needed a clear understanding between us of what we needed. We are both retired and our son has moved into his own place. Our list included the following:

Financial series

JULY 7—The YWCA Greater Pittsburgh will host a Financial Empowerment Series from 6:30-8 p.m. at the YWCA Homewood-Brushton, 6907 Frankstown Rd., Homewood. Every Wednesday, the four-session series will teach individuals how to create a successful strategy to improve one’s overall financial situation. The sessions will be focused on budgeting, using banks and credit unions, understanding credit, credit repair and saving-investing. The series will run through July 28 and a free copy of one’s credit report and free child care will be provided. Registration is required and the cost is $20 per person. For more information, call 412-255-6749.