In today’s time, according to author and financial expert Glinda Bridgforth, it is important for women to be aware of their financial situation and to be financially literate. Quoting her motto, that it is time for women of color to be “empowered, prepared, prudent and prosperous.” She pointed out that even in these uncertain economic times you should have power and the potential to achieve goals and dreams.

FINANCIAL AWARENESS—Glinda Bridgforth speaks to those at the Financial Literacy workshop.

After working with women of all colors and economic status, Bridgforth ascertains that the core reasons people have monetary trouble is low self-esteem, deprivation and fear. “Instead of dealing with what is going on on the inside we often use the retail theory and shop,” she said. “If you feel something is missing, you have to think about the motive, act on it, and deal with the fear of not having enough money,” Bridgforth said.

When a parent dies, a dependent child suffers one of the most painful experiences of their life. The emotional loss is significant, however lurking below the surface are legal and financial issues that can have a long-term impact on the child’s growth and development.

The highly publicized deaths of Michael Jackson and Anna Nicole Smith dramatize what can happen to children when they become pawns in an adult tug of war. The issue is real, since approximately one in 20 children will experience the loss of a parent before they reach the age of 18, according to a U.S. Bureau of Census report. Closer to home, how would your dependent children be cared for in the event of your premature death?

Father’s Day is almost here, so remember—men love toys. Regardless of his age, you might consider getting your guy a new video game or gaming system, as they continue to be popular. But ladies, if you buy him this kind of toy, your guy may need to share with you—because more women are gaming, too.

According to The Nielsen Company, the world’s largest marketing research company (aka, my employer), women love Wii, Xbox 360 and Playstation 3. Except perhaps for me. While I have spent hundreds (if not thousands) of dollars buying gaming components (the money invested in batteries alone could have netted me a hefty return by now if put into a Certificate of Deposit), I’ve actually spent less than 20 minutes playing a game. Clearly, I don’t buy them for myself. But am I the norm?

Before you think that I’m some type of tightwad or scrooge, let me say that I believe that giving is a wonderful thing. In fact, it is my heart’s desire that we all build a solid financial foundation so that one day we can give our time, talent and treasure to people and charitable causes that we believe in. However, I believe in giving when it helps not when it hurts.

Warning to those of you who are working hard, sacrificing, and doing without in order to save money for emergencies and futures goals: You’ll inevitably have to deal with money vampires—friends and family members that always seem to be having a money crisis and seeking to suck the money out of your wallet. It’s unavoidable. As a result, you’re going to quickly have to learn when you’re in a position to give and if the gift is truly helping or enabling.