Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger today announced the successful completion of the Money Talks financial literacy program’s partnership with the Georgia Department of Corrections, a summer initiative delivered in partnership with HeartBound Ministries. The program equipped nearly 400 incarcerated Georgians and correctional staff with essential tools for financial stability and successful reentry upon completion of their sentence.

“Generational poverty is one of the driving factors of incarceration and recidivism in Georgia,” said Secretary Raffensperger. “Financial literacy skills in saving, budgeting, career planning, and investing is a powerful tool to break those cycles and build a pathway to independence. Programs like Money Talks show that second chances are possible when we equip people with the knowledge to succeed.”

Between May and August 2025, Money Talks reached participants at six correctional facilities across Georgia, including both adult and juvenile centers. The program featured expert panelists and moderators who provided hands-on education in financial planning, entrepreneurship, and career readiness. Secretary Raffensperger’s office hosted programs at 6 correctional facilities throughout the state: Atlanta YDC, Georgia Diagnostic and Classification Prison, Burruss CTC, West Central ITF, Whitworth Women’s Facility, and Rutledge State Prison. Nearly 400 members of the prison population attended these events.

The program was made possible through the contributions of a distinguished group of panelists, including certified financial planners, wealth advisors, business consultants, and accountants.

“Reentry is about more than finishing a sentence - it’s about building a future,” said Noula Zaharis, Assistant Commissioner of Charities and Securities. “By empowering people with financial knowledge, we are helping them return to their families and communities stronger and better prepared to succeed.”

Secretary Raffensperger brings financial literacy programs to organizations across the state. If you are interested in hosting a program, please contact us here.