The Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh is deeply committed to helping individuals and families build financial confidence, stability, and long-term self-reliance. Many of the people we serve have been historically underserved by traditional financial institutions—often relying on payday lenders or quick-cash outlets that charge high fees and create cycles of debt.
Our Financial Empowerment Program provides the education, tools, and individualized support needed to break those cycles, rebuild trust in financial systems, and open pathways to more secure financial futures.
Participants learn how to avoid predatory loans and replace them with sustainable financial solutions.
We help clients understand, improve, and rebuild credit so they can access better opportunities.
Every individual receives compassionate, nonjudgmental guidance tailored to their goals and needs.
By developing budgeting skills and healthy financial habits, clients move toward true economic self-reliance.
A significant number of our clients face barriers that make traditional banking seem overwhelming or inaccessible—past account issues, added fees, or lack of trust stemming from financial hardship. Financial Empowerment helps individuals understand that there are sustainable alternatives, including bank partners who offer second-chance accounts and more equitable services.
Through personalized coaching, financial education, and access to trusted resources, we help clients take control of their financial decisions and build stronger futures for themselves and their families.
Participants work one-on-one with trained financial coaches to build personalized action plans. These plans:
We teach participants what credit is, why it matters, and how to build or restore credit health. Understanding credit scores, repairing past issues, and improving credit power helps open doors to better opportunities—from car loans to employment screenings.
Our classes help individuals understand the difference between needs and wants, create realistic budgets, and plan ahead for emergencies. This education is key in avoiding predatory payday loans and learning how to manage money with confidence and clarity.
We collaborate with trusted banking partners who offer accessible, low-barrier account options—even for those with previous banking challenges. These partnerships provide safe alternatives to payday lenders and support long-term stability.
As a HUD-Certified Housing Counseling Agency, the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh employs counselors who have passed rigorous national training and examinations. This distinction ensures our clients receive the highest standard of guidance and support.
This partnership is especially important for clients preparing for homeownership—even when challenges like student loan debt make the process feel overwhelming. Together, our teams help individuals identify the best path forward and build financial habits that support long-term success.
Financial empowerment is not about shame or blame—it’s about education, opportunity, and hope. Our compassionate team works by meeting each person where they are and helping them get where they want to be. Contact us today to learn more!