DE Financial Literacy Institute

In the late 1990’s, a group called Green Purse traveled the nation presenting Every Woman’s Money Conference. In 1999, State Treasurer Jack Markell brought the event to Delaware. The Delaware women in attendance were so energized by the program that they urged the Treasurer to keep the financial dialogue alive, inspiring Markell to organize 12 classes for “every woman”, establishing “Delaware’s Money School.” In 2001, Markell raised funds to create the Delaware Financial Literacy Institute, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. DFLI, as the Institute is nicknamed, opened its doors in the Claymont Community Center in June 2002. Ronni Cohen, a former Brandywine School District teacher, was hired as Executive Director of DFLI, to run financial literacy initiatives, including The Money School. Over the years, additional programs have been created, all to fulfill DFLI’s mission:

To help individuals, especially those of low to moderate income, become equipped with the tools to get their financial lives in order so that they can become self-sufficient and enjoy financial well-being over time.

Leveraging nonprofit, government, educational, and corporate partnerships has been the key to the growth and enhancement of programs, development of new initiatives, and capacity building of the Delaware Financial Literacy Institute. Over 150 representatives from these organizations comprise the all volunteer “faculty” of The Money School and help staff the many DFLI events.

Since 2001, DFLI has grown into a Community of Learners in a School Without Walls.

DFLI Staff

Ronni Cohen , Executive Director – ronni@dfli.org

Karen Graham, Senior Associate Director – karen@dfli.org

Tami Schoenfeld, Money School DIrector – tami@dfli.org

Christine Paski, Program Manager – christine@dfli.org

Shaquilla Holmes, Program Specialist – shaquilla@dfli.org

Nancy Dotsicas, Office Manager – nancy@dfli.org

DFLI Programs

The Money School	A program that offers over 600 FREE community-based financial education classes annually across the state.

From Purses to Portfolios	A program encourages participants to pursue on-going FREE financial education through The Money School.

CODE	Provides the Delaware small business community and the public with support and networking opportunities.

BANK AT SCHOOL	A program that teaches children about money management by providing real banking experiences.

Youth Programs	DFLI has programs that teach elementary, middle and high school students financial skills and entrepreneurship.

Savings Programs	A program that provides certified credit counselors to help individuals understand and improve their credit situation, and financial coaches to help them take charge of their financial future.