Promoting a lifestyle of savings Published Jan. 24, 2008 By Senior Airman Desiree Godfrey 319th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- With tax season in full swing, it's time to think about what you're going to do with that big return you'll be seeing soon. Most people have the impulse to spend it all on that one thing they've been yearning for all year long. But before you decide to spend your tax return, there is a new program that could change your mind about where your money goes. Military Saves is a Department of Defense initiative to persuade, motivate and encourage military members and their dependants to save money. Whether it is a long-term savings plan such as a 401K, or something short-term such as paying off credit cards, making the commitment to save is the aim of Military Saves. Most are reluctant to discuss finances. This program is designed to promote saving money and help individuals and families reach their savings goal without requiring them to talk to anyone about it. Participants are able to enroll savings or debt reduction goals in the program online at www.militarysaves.org. The Website also contains tips on how to save, as well as manage debt. Individuals who write down their goals and share it with someone else are more likely to reach it than those who don't. Even more important, individuals with written savings goals, save twice as much as those who don't put it in writing. While Military Saves is an ongoing campaign, the entire military community will come together to focus on financial readiness during Military Saves Week, Feb. 24 through Mar. 2. Throughout this week, the Airman and Family Readiness Center will host a variety of financial seminars with different topics every day. Build wealth, not debt, become a "Military Saver" and encourage others to become one too. For more information about the program, contact Mrs. Michele Schull Reinowski at 747-6437.