Financial Resources + Wellness
Financial Wellness Resources
Quick Links
Contact Us
Financial Aid
Student Services Center
SSC Room 102
financialaid@contracosta.edu
510.215.6026
Spark Point
Student Services Center
SSC Room 110
g.mendoza172@dvc.edu
510.215.6837
Studies show that by receiving financial wellness lessons, people are more likely to save, stay out of debt, and be more financially stable even after college.
Below are resources that can assist students with making informed financial decisions for better financial wellness, now and in the future.
Financial Aid
Find Financial Aid Confusing? We don’t blame you!
What we can tell you is that by spending a little time learning about Financial Aid and other financial systems, you will learn to empower yourself along the way! We strongly encourage students to sign up for financial wellness counseling and learn about the different types of financial aid, grants, scholarships and self help funds available to students.
Are you considering taking out a student loan for college expenses? Taking on debt is a big decision that should not be taken lightly. Read on for things to consider before signing that loan paperwork! How much should I borrow? It’s always important to borrow only what you absolutely need to be successful in your classes.
Start by creating a budget to assess how much money you already have, and what your expenses are. Be honest with yourself about expenses that you need, versus expenses that you want. Use these Budgeting Tips to get started.
Next, use the Repayment Estimator to determine how much your monthly loan payment to be once you graduate. But how will I know if I can afford the monthly payments? Another thing to consider when deciding how much debt you should take out is how much you can earn once you complete your college degree and enter the workforce.
Use the U.S. Department of Labor Statistics National Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates to find out what people in your desired career are earning.
Sparkpoint
SparkPoint helps to empower individuals and families to become financial sustainable for social change. Work one-on-one with a coach who can help identify your goals for financial stability and prosperity!
SparkPoint is a nonprofit that helps people achieve financial security. Get free, coaching about budgeting, saving money, improving credit scores, reducing debt, and more!
SparkPoint Services:
- Financial coaching
- Credit coaching
- Connecting you with free legal services regarding things like student loans, bankruptcy, collections and credit history
How to Use SparkPoint
You can access SparkPoint services by attending an orientation or scheduling a one-on-one appointment. Check out our events calendar to register for an orientation or book a one-on-one appointment.
For more information on SparkPoint services and upcoming workshops, contact the SparkPoint Coordinator, Gerardo Mendoza.
Other Financial Wellness Resources
Contra Costa College Foundation
Offers scholarship opportunities and other student success support. Scholarship application window is every November to mid-February.
Take Classes with No Textbook Costs
Textbooks can be expensive, and the cost can add up quickly. At Contra Costa College, some classes are offered with no textbook costs, meaning you do not have to purchase a textbook to take the course.
These classes are also known as Zero Textbook Cost (ZTC) courses. Instead of traditional textbooks, instructors use free learning materials such as Open Educational Resources (OER), online materials, or instructor-created content.
Locate ZTC courses in the class schedule by looking for the ZTC icon in the “Section” column of the schedule.
Insurance
Student Health Care Coverage
CCC’s insurance partner, Keenan, offers options for affordable health care coverage for students via their website at www.keenandirect.com/collegestudents
Student Car Insurance Coverage
CCC’s insurance partner, California’s Low-Cost Auto Insurance is a state-sponsored program that makes auto insurance more affordable. www.mylowcostauto.com
Get Involved
The Compass Center welcomes partnerships and philanthropic support that strengthen student wellbeing and access to essential resources.
Partnerships and Collaboration
Organizations or individuals interested in partnering with the Compass Center are encouraged to contact the Basic Needs Coordinator at hdixon@contracosta.edu.
Support Our Work
Donations directly support Contra Costa College students through food access and related basic needs services.
*Note: When donating, please select “Choose Other” in the designation field and enter “Food Pantry” to ensure your gift is directed to Compass Center services.
Campus Presentations and Trainings
Faculty and staff seeking presentations or trainings related to student basic needs may submit a request using the form below