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.

by Charlene Crowell

(NNPA)—After two weeks of intense negotiations by a joint Capitol Hill conference committee, Washington lawmakers finally reached agreement on the single largest financial reform package since the 1930’s New Deal. The new reforms would establish stronger protections against abusive mortgages, help borrowers facing foreclosures, establish a strong Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and rein in many of the risky activities of Wall Street and the large banks. Additionally, $2 billion will be equally shared in support of foreclosure prevention assistance and supplemental funding for the Neighborhood Stabilization Program.

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.

For the last two years Bernadette Turner and Darcel Madkins, co-founders of the African American Leadership Association, have been striving to develop potential leaders by utilizing the expertise and resources of the area’s existing seasoned leadership. After much discussion, research and pulling together their connections the organization was created.

LEADER TO LEADER—Bernadette Turner and Darcel Madkins, co-founders of the African American Leadership Association share a moment with Mayor Jay Williams of Youngstown, Ohio.

Since its existence, the group has sponsored Streets n’ Suits, an open dialogue to discuss the perceptions of community and business leaders from the streets to suits, and the African American Leadership Development Series. The sessions, varying in topics, assist emerging leaders in understanding and preparing for leadership roles. Also, the AALA recently hosted their second annual African American Leadership Summit. More than 120 people were on hand to hear keynote speaker Jay Williams, mayor of Youngtown, Ohio, to witness the Success in Leadership panel discussion and to participate in the afternoon breakout sessions. The event also featured an awards ceremony.