Plan SMARTer. Build a Stronger Financial Future.
Good financial habits can create lasting opportunities. Planning SMARTer is a free personal finance education program from Northampton Community College's Pocono Campus that helps NCC students and Monroe County community members gain the knowledge and confidence to make informed financial decisions. Through real-world scenarios and personalized guidance, participants learn practical skills they can apply immediately to everyday life.
Originally launched in 2022, Planning SMARTer has helped hundreds of participants develop healthier financial habits and greater financial stability. Thanks to continued support from the R. Dale and Frances M. Hughes Foundation, the program is expanding to serve even more students, schools and community organizations throughout Monroe County.
What You'll Learn
Planning SMARTer focuses on practical, real-life financial skills, including:
- Budgeting & Saving – Create a realistic spending plan and build toward your financial goals.
- Credit Management – Learn how credit works and strategies for building and maintaining healthy credit.
- Debt Reduction – Explore practical approaches to managing and reducing debt.
- Financial Decision-Making – Practice navigating everyday financial situations with greater confidence.
Who Can Participate?
Planning SMARTer is offered free of charge to:
- NCC students
- Monroe County community members
- Partner organizations and community agencies
- Participating Monroe County school districts
The program also partners with PathStone to provide financial literacy education to its clients and is approved as an ACT 158 alternate assessment for Stroudsburg High School students.
Why Planning SMARTer?
Whether you're preparing for college, starting your career, managing a household budget or working toward long-term financial goals, Planning SMARTer provides the tools and support to help you:
- Build confidence in managing your money
- Develop healthy financial habits
- Make informed financial decisions
- Strengthen your long-term financial stability
