Bridging the Gap Initiative Expands Financial Literacy with Training on Saving and Investing
Bridging the Gap Initiative Expands Financial Literacy with Training on Saving and Investing
Bridging the Gap Initiative Expands Financial Literacy with Training on Saving and Investing
One value of the Christian faith is stewardship, the belief that God expects followers of Christ to become responsible managers of all the assets placed in our care. These include time, talents, spiritual resources, and money. It was within this framework that the S. T. Nagbe Distant Members Fellowship (DMF), through its Bridging the Gap Initiative, continued its commitment to economic empowerment by hosting an in‑depth financial workshop focused on Saving and Investing. The session, facilitated through a virtual training session, was facilitated by Travis Fonderson, CPA, a financial professional and one of the initiative’s core team leaders.
The training reflects DMF’s growing emphasis on equipping its members with practical tools for long‑term financial stability. Travis opened the session by underscoring a central truth: financial security is not accidental, but intentional, disciplined, and it is built over time.
Why Saving Matters
Saving is the foundation of every strong financial plan. He emphasized that saving is not merely about storing money, but about building a life, creating financial security, and ultimately achieving financial freedom. Without a consistent saving practice, he noted, individuals remain vulnerable to emergencies, debt cycles, and missed opportunities.
He encouraged participants to view saving as a non‑negotiable habit rather than an optional activity. “Your future self,” he said, “depends on the decisions you make with your money today.”
Understanding the 50/20/30 Rule
A major portion of the training focused on the 50/20/30 income rule, a simple but powerful budgeting framework designed to help individuals manage their finances with clarity and balance.
- 50% for Essentials:
This portion of income should cover basic needs such as food, housing, utilities, transportation, tithing, and clothing. Keeping essential expenses within this boundary helps prevent lifestyle inflation and financial strain.
- 20% for Financial Goals:
This category includes debt repayment, savings contributions, and investments. This portion is the engine of financial growth, noting that consistent contributions—even small ones—compound over time.
- 30% — Lifestyle Choices:
This portion is reserved for entertainment, leisure, travel, and personal enjoyment. He reminded participants that financial planning is not about deprivation but about balance and intentionality.
While the percentages may shift slightly based on individual circumstances, the rule provides a reliable starting point for anyone seeking structure and discipline.
Building a Strong Saving Practice
The facilitator then outlined a three‑step roadmap for developing a sustainable saving habit:
Contribute to Investments
Once debt is under control and an emergency fund is established, individuals should begin investing consistently. Investing is essential for long‑term wealth building and should be approached with patience and discipline—without taking on new debt.
Pay Down High‑interest Debt
High‑interest debt, especially credit card balances, can quietly erode financial progress. Travis urged participants to prioritize eliminating these debts to free up income for more productive uses.
Build an Emergency or “Rainy Day” Fund
He recommended saving enough to cover three to six months of living expenses, noting that emergencies are inevitable. A strong emergency fund prevents individuals from relying on loans or credit cards during crises.
Empowering the DMF Community
The training is part of DMF’s broader mission to “bridge the gap” in areas such as financial literacy, career development, and personal growth. By offering practical, accessible education, the initiative aims to strengthen families, promote economic resilience, and empower members to make informed financial decisions.
Participants expressed appreciation for the clarity and practicality of the session, noting that the tools provided will help them better manage their income, reduce financial stress, and plan for the future.
The Bridging the Gap Initiative will continue hosting workshops throughout the year, expanding its focus to include budgeting, credit management, entrepreneurship, and retirement planning. These workshops will equip the current and future generations of DMF members to become responsible stewards to the glory of God and for the benefit of the community of faith.
DMF Program Committee Begins the Year with Dynamism
A Dynamic Start to 2026
The DMF ushered in 2026 with enthusiasm and purpose as the Program Committee organized a dynamic event centered on leadership. On February 22, 2026, members gathered virtually on a beautiful winter evening for a leadership workshop and recommitment ceremony. The workshop provided an opportunity for members to renew their dedication to the Fellowship through recommitment vows. Sis. Irene Wright, serving as the emcee, fostered a spirit of camaraderie and set a relaxed, engaging tone for the occasion.
Opening of the Leadership Workshop
The event opened with prayer led by the chaplain, Rev. G. Morris Jarkloh, followed by a warm welcome from Sis. Florence Fonderson. Sis. Brenda Davis offered a heartfelt rendition of “The Lighthouse,” substituting for Bro. Cedrick Reeves, who was attending to logistical matters. Sis. Lutricia Freeman then introduced the guest speaker, Bro. Sidney Frederick Sayeh, who addressed the topic of parliamentary procedure. He described parliamentary procedure as the “orderly conduct of meetings,” tracing its roots to Henry Roberts, who developed the standard guide for ensuring order, democracy, and efficiency in meetings. The speaker discussed key elements such as the role of the presiding officer, the importance of a quorum, using an agenda, managing motions, recording minutes, handling procedural requests, and voting. The emcee expressed gratitude for his insights, noting the value of his presentation, which was followed by a question-and-answer session.
Musical Inspiration and Divine Message
After resolving his logistical concerns, Bro. Cedrick Reeves joined the event and sang a solo. Remarkably, he performed the same song, “The Lighthouse,” that Sis. Brenda Davis had sung earlier, though neither had coordinated beforehand. This coincidence was seen as a sign that God was encouraging the Fellowship to serve as a beacon of light.
Motivational Address: “It Is on the Inside”
Sis. Romell Berry introduced the motivational speaker, Rev. Clarence Dale, who spoke on the theme, “It is on the Inside.” Drawing from Joshua 1, he encouraged the Fellowship to persist in their good works. Rev. Dale observed that while not everyone is meant to lead, leaders should avoid envy and arrogance, referencing the relationship between Saul and David. He emphasized that true leadership comes from qualities instilled by God and highlighted the importance of humility, urging leaders to “know who’s holding your ladder” as they rise, just as others supported Moses and Joshua.
Rev. Dale further shared that leaders must be dreamers who look to God as their benefactor, reminding the audience to always remember their origins when blessed. He compared leaders to molecules that bind atoms together, encouraging members to be examples of cohesion and support within the Fellowship. He concluded with stories of leaders who began with small visions and grew exponentially through faith, affirming that “if God is for us, nothing will stop the vision.” He ended his motivational talk by singing “the blood of Jesus will never lose its power,” which was met with enthusiastic amens. A question-and-answer session followed his address.
Gratitude and Recommitment
The current queen of the DMF, Sis. Cecelia Kai offered words of appreciation to both speakers. Rev. Levi Williams led the Fellowship in the Recommitment Vows, followed by a prayer from Sis. Johnette Gongloe for the wellbeing of the group. The current king, Bro. Teewon Dolopei, expressed thanks to the Program team, guest speakers, singers, those who offered prayers, and all attendees. With this vibrant leadership workshop and recommitment ceremony, the DMF began the year united and prepared to advance with clarity and commitment.
Students Inspired at Virtual Back-to-School Event
Students Inspired at Virtual Back-to-School Event — Bridging the Gap Initiative
Hosted by Distant Members Fellowship | September 7, 2025
Students from across the country logged in for a vibrant and empowering virtual back-to-school celebration hosted by the Distant Members Fellowship (DMF) Bridging the Gap Program. Now in its second year, the “Popcorn and Ice Cream Back-to-School” event aimed to motivate, uplift, and spiritually prepare students for the academic year ahead.
The program kicked off with a warm welcome from Master of Ceremony Levi Kai, who set the tone for an evening of inspiration and connection. Students relaxed in their homes with a bowl of popcorn and ice cream in hand.
Ms. Brandii Bedell, daughter of DMF Vice President Brenda Bedell, led the opening prayer, inviting the Holy Spirit and asked for divine guidance throughout the school year. Her Royal Highness Cece Kai, Coordinator of the Bridging the Gap Program, followed with a heartfelt welcome to students and parents. She encouraged students to stay engaged, be punctual, and never hesitate to ask questions.
To energize the group, Bro. Dave Gondoun led a dynamic scavenger hunt that helped students break the ice and feel at ease. With the atmosphere warmed and spirits lifted, Bro. Daniel Karr introduced the keynote speaker: Dr. Fatima Greaves Kwekwe, President of the University of Liberia Alumni Association in America.
Dr. Kwekwe holds a Ph.D. in Education from the University of Arizona Global Campus and brings over 25 years of experience in education across the United States and Liberia. Her presence added depth and distinction to the event.
In her keynote address, Dr. Kwekwe warmly welcomed the Class of 2025 to a new chapter filled with opportunity and promise. “You are the reason we are here,” she affirmed, highlighting the dreams and potential each student carries—potential that can shape not only their future, but the world. She encouraged the students to embrace growth, reminding them that success is not defined by perfection, but by the ability to learn from failure and persevere.
Dr. Kwekwe also spoke directly to parents, thanking them for their trust and partnership. “Education is not just about grades and exams,” she said, “but about raising compassionate, well-rounded individuals.” She encouraged students to use the school year as a time for discovery, building meaningful connections, and laying the foundation for lifelong friendships. “The future is not waiting for you,” she concluded, “it is being built by you—every single day.”.
Following the keynote, Bro. Gondoun led a student roll call, where each students introduced themselves, their school, major, and a fun fact.
Dr. Abimbola Kuforiji then offered a prayer, entrusting the students to God’s care and praying for a joyful and safe academic year.
Bro. Travis Samory Fonderson expressed gratitude to all attendees and urged parents to continue supporting their children’s involvement in the Bridging the Gap Program. The event concluded with closing remarks from Sis. Florence Fonderson, wrapping up a day filled with hope, encouragement, and anticipation for the year ahead.
