In Jacksonville, Florida, a unique collaboration between Regions Bank and Ability Housing is changing lives by fostering financial literacy and empowering residents to achieve their dreams of homeownership. At the heart of this initiative is Moses Henry, Vice President and Mortgage Loan Originator at Regions Bank, whose passion for financial education is making a lasting difference in the community.
The collaboration between Regions Bank and Ability Housing began before Henry even joined the bank. “I started dealing with Ability Housing prior to my actually coming on board with Regions Bank,” he recalls. His journey began around 2014 when he worked as a Financial Stability Manager at Family Foundations of Northeast Florida, a nonprofit financial counseling agency in Northeast Florida. There, he provided financial literacy workshops across various low- to moderate-income housing communities, including Ability Housing properties.
When Henry joined Regions Bank, he continued his mission, integrating his work into the bank’s community outreach efforts. His role at Regions aligns perfectly with his passion: “As a community mortgage loan originator, I basically help people. Traditionally, I help first-time homebuyers,” Henry explained. The increasing unaffordability of housing drives his focus on low-to-moderate-income families and individuals. He has helped several Ability Housing residents transition from renting to owning homes through down payment assistance programs and personalized financial counseling.
Changing Lives Through Financial Education
Henry’s workshops cover a wide range of essential topics, including personal budgeting, credit management, and spending habits. His highly interactive approach encourages participants to engage with the material and reflect on their financial decisions. One of the most powerful aspects of these sessions is the discussion on spending habits. Henry noted that many residents are often unaware of the long-term impact of seemingly small financial decisions, such as co-signing loans or accumulating credit card debt.
“We talk about spending habits and different personality traits when it comes to finances. There are some people that are givers, and I let them know, as a giver, takers could possibly take advantage of you financially,” Henry said. These candid conversations are designed to empower residents to make informed choices and protect their financial well-being.
Real Stories of Transformation
One of the most rewarding parts of Henry’s work is witnessing the tangible impact of financial literacy on residents’ lives. He recalled a specific success story of a single, disabled gentleman who, despite relying on fixed income sources like SSI and child support, was able to purchase a home. “People think because they’re on a fixed income, there is no hope for them. But with programs like the City of Jacksonville’s Headstart to Homeownership Program, we can make homeownership a reality for them,” Henry shared. This story, among others, underscores the transformative power of expanding financial education and assistance through community partnerships.
Looking Ahead: Expanding the Vision
The success of these workshops has not only benefited individual residents but has also inspired Henry to think about the future of this collaboration. He is eager to see the program expand to include more properties and potentially reach younger audiences. Recently, he participated in a national conference where high school students experienced a Regions organized “Reality Check” program, simulating real-life financial decisions. “It was by far the most fun I had doing any kind of financial training,” Henry said, expressing a desire to implement similar programs in Jacksonville’s high schools.
Henry’s vision is clear: to break the cycle of poverty and dependency by equipping residents with the knowledge and tools they need to achieve financial independence and build generational wealth.
“Helping people build wealth, that’s the most rewarding part of what I do,” Henry concluded his work with Ability Housing is not just about offering financial advice; it’s about giving people the confidence and resources to change their lives.
The collaboration between Regions Bank and Ability Housing, led by dedicated individuals like Moses Henry, is a shining example of how financial literacy can transform communities. Through education, support, and personalized guidance, residents are empowered to take control of their financial futures, paving the way for a brighter, more stable life. This initiative is more than a service; it’s a commitment to making a lasting, positive impact on the lives of those who need it most.