Ally Financial Launches New Financial Literacy Program

DETROIT, July 25, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- For some consumers, issues such as credit, household budgets, banking and investing can be challenging topics, especially if they don't know where to go for guidance. Ally Financial Inc. has launched a new financial literacy program–Ally Wallet Wise—that can help take some of the unknown out of personal finance.

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Ally Wallet Wise offers community-based, in-person sessions, as well as online courses through www.allywalletwise.com. Both options are available at no cost to consumers.

Topics covered include Credit, Budget and Banking & Investing. Ally plans to add courses on automotive finance and home finance in the future. The website and in-person classes offer:

• Exercises to educate consumers on personal finance concepts.
• Real-life scenarios to help consumers navigate challenges in personal finance.  
• Resources for consumers to obtain additional support.

"With Ally Wallet Wise, we hope to provide consumers with basic financial knowledge so they can make educated decisions when creating a budget and saving for their future," said Gina Proia, chief communications officer of Ally Financial, who oversees the Community Relations efforts at the company.  

Ally Financial has teamed with community organizations across the country to teach the in-person Wallet Wise sessions. These organizations are equipped with workbook and presentation materials that have been structured to teach consumers in an atmosphere that is fun, interactive and conducive to learning. Consumers can learn about upcoming sessions in their community by visiting www.allywalletwise.com.

"Understanding the basics of budgeting and credit is a top priority now more than ever for many consumers," Proia said. "Personal finance can be a very sensitive topic and Ally is pleased to offer consumers the option that best suits them—either taking the courses online or attending one of the in-person community-based sessions. Both options provide consumers with additional information that can be applied to many personal finance challenges, as well as long-term goals."

Ally originally launched a financial literacy program as SmartEdge by GMAC in 2002. The program, curriculum and website have been updated as Ally Wallet Wise to reflect the most recent personal finance information and resources for consumers. The information is also presented in a straightforward manner to be engaging and easy to understand.

About Ally Financial Inc.

Ally Financial Inc. (formerly GMAC Inc.) is one of the world's largest automotive financial services companies. The company offers a full suite of automotive financing products and services in key markets around the world. Ally's other business units include mortgage operations and commercial finance, and the company's subsidiary, Ally Bank, offers retail banking products. With approximately $174 billion in assets as of March 31, 2011, Ally operates as a bank holding company.  For more information, visit the Ally media site at http://media.ally.com or follow Ally on Twitter: @ally.

Contact:

Beth Coggins
313-656-6964
[email protected]

SOURCE Ally Financial Inc.