Okaloosa Saves is a community coalition designed to encourage individuals to "build wealth, not debt." Okaloosa Saves is concerned about the lack of savings and the high levels of debt in our county. This financial insecurity can lead to personal and community problems.

Okaloosa Saves is supported by a coalition of over 30 area institutions and individuals who are com­mitted to the well being of residents in our county. This coalition includes representation from busi­nesses, non-profits, government, education, faith-based groups and community leaders in addition to participating financial institutions. These organizations have been meeting monthly since August 2002 to develop savings services and strategies for our community. The Okaloosa Saves coalition incorporated in July 2003 and has received tax-exempt status.

In this community, Okaloosa Saves/AmericaSaves is coordinated by the Okaloosa County Extension— a publicly funded educational network linking the Okaloosa Board of County Commissioners, University of Florida/IFAS and the USDA — in partnership with area businesses, non-profits, government, faith-based, and educational institutions.