On the Rise Financial Center Client Stories

On the Rise helps our clients and their families reach financial stability by offering financial education, access to low cost and low barrier financial resources, and personalized financial coaching.

…and yes, we are On the Rise!

James Garrett 

Intern

“With such a diverse community in the west side and greater Atlanta area, we all require hands-on education to improve our financial well-being. As stated by a client, ‘budgeting is telling our money where to go instead of wondering where it went.’ As a social worker, I have learned to take my place as an advocate for community members and use my position and acquired knowledge to empower the community I am apart of. Sometimes these positions may be uncomfortable, but to elevate our clients, I must continue to push boundaries within myself and our society.” James is On the Rise!

Andrea Jordan

Client

“I was apprehensive about going to On the Rise for services, but my neighbor strongly suggested I set a financial coaching appointment with Frank. I felt ashamed, almost as if I were overqualified for their services because I was already a homeowner and never late on monthly payments, I sometimes paid extra! Unfortunately, the kryptonite to my credit report were stockpiled student loans and my overuse to my credit card. Thankfully, I was encouraged to step out of my comfort zone with discipline and in the last six months, I’ve tracked all my spending, re-established my savings account and fully paid off one of my credit cards.” Andrea is On the Rise!

Andrea Jordan

Client

“I was apprehensive about going to On the Rise for services, but my neighbor strongly suggested I set a financial coaching appointment with Frank. I felt ashamed, almost as if I were overqualified for their services because I was already a homeowner and never late on monthly payments, I sometimes paid extra! Unfortunately, the kryptonite to my credit report were stockpiled student loans and my overuse to my credit card. Thankfully, I was encouraged to step out of my comfort zone with discipline and in the last six months, I’ve tracked all my spending, re-established my savings account and fully paid off one of my credit cards.” Andrea is On the Rise!

Janae Martin

Client

“On the Rise Financial Center and their quality of service lacked in no way, shape or form. Since the beginning, when I decided to make an appointment, Eli had great customer service and was very helpful with the process. I was ashamed of my financial state until that point, but my financial coach, Frank, was knowledgeable, understanding and kind. He held me accountable every week for our previous goals set and I am proud to say that I can now stick to my budget, I’ve paid off some debt and my credit has improved significantly. I was even able to decrease my auto loan by 10 percent! Thanks to OTR, I am on track to a brighter financial future.” Janae is On the Rise!

James Heastie III

Client

“Participating in the On the Rise Achievement Club was probably one of the best decisions I could make in a long time. Being involved with an intimate collective group made it easier for everyone to address our different financial concerns and I was able to receive and give applicable feedback from the coaches/peers. My most impactful takeaway I received was the statement, ‘don’t chase the money, chase the vision’. For years, money had been the main goal and I neglected purpose. With 20/20 vision, I’ve chosen to become a tax professional with the possibility of becoming a franchise owner before this tax season.” James is On the Rise!

James Heastie III

Client

“Participating in the On the Rise Achievement Club was probably one of the best decisions I could make in a long time. Being involved with an intimate collective group made it easier for everyone to address our different financial concerns and I was able to receive and give applicable feedback from the coaches/peers. My most impactful takeaway I received was the statement, ‘don’t chase the money, chase the vision’. For years, money had been the main goal and I neglected purpose. With 20/20 vision, I’ve chosen to become a tax professional with the possibility of becoming a franchise owner before this tax season.” James is On the Rise!

Melodii Peoples

Client

“As a legacy Vine City resident, I’ve experienced some common housing barriers (i.e. evictions, car repossessions, large student loans, etc.) that have effected my finances and prevented me from owning my own home. After experiencing a number of disappointments, Councilman Antonio Brown recommended I reach out to On the Rise Financial Center. Dismantling my skepticism, OTRFC and Mrs. Beverly Westbrooks have been an awesome financial resource and support system. Mrs. Westbrooks has been consistent and continues to challenge me to see money differently and helps me identify my wants vs. needs. I want to return to Vine City as a responsible and engaged home owner. I am committed to fighting housing insecurity. It starts with me.” Melodii is On the Rise!

Dennis Darnes

Client

“As a United States Marine Corp Veteran who has a disability and a 5-year substance abuse recoveree, I never thought that I would own a home. Thankfully, On the Rise Financial Center was my last stop. I had to come in, knock on the door, and ask questions so that the Center could help me. Ms. Deja Trammell assisted me for months by helping me to track my spending and I showing me various programs I qualified for. October 24, 2019, I closed on my own townhome!” Denis is On the Rise!

Dennis Darnes

Client

“As a United States Marine Corp Veteran who has a disability and a 5-year substance abuse recoveree, I never thought that I would own a home. Thankfully, On the Rise Financial Center was my last stop. I had to come in, knock on the door, and ask questions so that the Center could help me. Ms. Deja Trammell assisted me for months by helping me to track my spending and I showing me various programs I qualified for. October 24, 2019, I closed on my own townhome!” Dennis is On the Rise!

Philip Mincey

Client

We met around August of last year, 2019 when I was directed into your office. I am proud to say I am officially DEBT FREE! Thank you for your tips and advice. Even though I stopped coming to my appointments, I was still focused on what needed to be done. Hope you and your family are doing well through this pandemic. Thank you again! Philip is On the Rise!