Financial Wellness Workshops That Strengthen Our Community

Bringing humanity to financial services means meeting people where they are and helping build the foundations for financial confidence. One of the most impactful ways we do this is through ongoing financial wellness workshops led by Richard Stirgus, Vice President of Community Relations.

Richard has been leading "Budget 101" and "Credit 101" workshops throughout the community for the past 3 years. These sessions focus on essential financial building blocks and provide approachable, judgment-free guidance for individuals and families who want to take control of their finances.

Partnering for Impact

A key partner in this effort is CJK Community Homes, a 501(c)(3) organization committed to providing clean, safe, contemporary, and affordable housing for low-income Pierce County residents. Through supportive case management services, CJK connects residents with onsite mental health professionals and offers individualized support, including financial literacy education. Their long-term goal is to contribute to creating Net Zero homelessness in Pierce County.

In October 2025, TAPCO collaborated with CJK Community Homes to host Credit 101 and Budgeting 101 workshops at our Main Branch. Each session welcomed 6 to 8 participants, and we are continuing to build TAPCO into a community hub for financial wellness and education.

Financial Education Through the Court System

TAPCO also partnered with the Pierce County District Court to lead a Budget 101 workshop as part of its Day Reporting Program. The program is available to court-involved individuals who are not eligible for the Work Crew Program. Instead of serving jail time, or to reduce court fines, participants attend structured classes using a cognitive-behavioral approach and a rotating six week life-skills curriculum.

TAPCO was added to this curriculum to provide financial wellness workshops focused on practical budgeting skills and responsible money management. This partnership has made financial education available to individuals who often have limited access to tools and resources that support long-term financial stability.

Looking Ahead

Our commitment is ongoing. We aim to expand these workshops across Pierce County and continue making TAPCO Credit Union a trusted resource for financial wellness, education, and support.

By partnering with organizations that serve our community, listening to people's needs, and offering financial education with care and accessibility, we continue our mission of bringing humanity to financial services.