In a response to the mass layoffs at the Herrin Maytag/Whirlpool plant, Man-Tra-Con worked with community partners to offer free workshops to assist workers in developing a solid, successful plan for their future. Perhaps the most immediate need for Maytag/Whirlpool employees was a solid financial plan for the transition period and beyond.

Focus on Finances was a free workshop for Maytag/Whirlpool employees. Approximately one hundred Maytag/Whirlpool employees and their guests attended this important opportunity.

The workshops offered information such as personal and family budgeting, how to make your severance package make money safely for you, securing your future (the future of your 401K), what to pay off now, financing and refinancing, real life investing strategies, economic forecasting and what it means to you and other important financial information tips that the Maytag/Whirlpool employees needed to know prior to layoff.

Mayor Vic Ritter endorsed these workshops calling them an, “important piece” to secure Maytag/Whirlpool workers and the Herrin economy. “Other towns that have experienced mass layoffs die due to lack of personal, family and city planning. In addition to the workers, it affects everything from schools to small businesses and everything in between. We’re going to be prepared,” noted the Herrin Mayor. “Everyone is trained from grade school what to do in case of a tornado, but no one is told how to prepare if there is a layoff. We designed these classes to save the workers, their families and the community of Herrin,” he added.

The initial Focus on Finances 2-part workshop was held at John A. Logan College on the following dates and times:

Two additional 2-part workshops were added due to overwhelming attendance.

Complimentary refreshments were provided by John A Logan College and Man-Tra-Con Corporation.

Free child care next to the conference rooms was provided by John A. Logan College.