The Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners proclaimed April 7-11, 2025 as Okaloosa Saves and America Saves Week during their board meeting Tuesday.

• This year’s theme, “Saving for Your Past, Present and Future,” aims to inspire residents to evaluate their finances, establish savings goals and create actionable plans to achieve them.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners for their continued efforts in raising awareness about the importance of saving,” said Okaloosa Saves Board Chair Laura Coale. “Personal and household savings are crucial for the stability and vitality of northwest Florida residents.”

The commissioners’ proclamation highlighted that adequate emergency savings, retirement funds and safe debt-income ratios are critical components of personal financial security. The proclamation calls on community members to start or increase emergency funds, open savings accounts, set up split deposits for savings and increase 401(k) contributions.

America Saves Week has been an annual celebration and call to action since 2007, encouraging everyday Americans to commit to successful saving practices. The initiative relies on thousands of participating organizations to promote financial wellness.

• Okaloosa Saves, a local partner in the America Saves campaign, was founded in 2003 as a 501(c)3 organization focused on helping individuals build wealth and reduce debt. In 2024, the organization received the Savings Champion Award from America Saves.

America Saves operates as an initiative of the Consumer Federation of America, a non-profit, pro-consumer organization with over 270 consumer education, advocacy and cooperative members dedicated to advancing consumer interests.

Residents can learn more about these initiatives at americasavesweek.org and okaloosasaves.com.