Caribbean: Financial literacy volunteer FAQs
- share your knowledge in a way that is easy to understand
- register your session with us
- coordinate with the host organization
- learn about the target audience/host organization/school
- check if you need a police check for the school board you are volunteering with
- find out about the session requirements
- review the session overview
- familiarize yourself with the session materials (PPTs, handouts, and so on)
- submit completed evaluation forms to us
Is there an orientation I can refer to?
Yes, see Caribbean: Financial Literacy Orientation. Note: this page is only accessible to registered volunteers.
Do I have to present a specific number of sessions per year?
No, there is no set requirement for presenting sessions. It is up to your discretion and availability. In locations where the program has been in place for some time, volunteers are presenting four sessions per year or more.
Can I partner with other volunteers to do the sessions together?
Yes, you can partner with other volunteers to do the sessions.
Can I attend the sessions as an observer to learn more about the process?
Yes, please email us to find out which sessions are being hosted in your area.
How do I find volunteer opportunities to do sessions?
Following the requisite training, volunteers will have the resources and materials required to offer financial literacy sessions in their local communities. We encourage speaking with your local libraries, chambers of commerce, school boards, and other organizations to determine where a need might exist. The chapter board is also actively working on volunteer opportunities and they will be communicated through newsletters, email updates and the website.
Can I get CPD credits for presenting a session?
Our sessions are eligible for CPD credits, for the presentation only. As members in Barbados are members of various provincial bodies, we encourage you must to confirm with your CPA provincial body.
How long is a session?
A session is set to be an hour, including a 15-minute Q&A at the end. School workshops are 45-60 minutes (including a 15-minute Q&A), depending on the grade.
Who is the target audience?
Our general target audience is middle income individuals with a steady income who need help with managing their money. This audience is divided into the following key areas:
- adults
- school (junior and secondary students)
- post-secondary students
- entrepreneurs
For specific session details, review the session overviews for each topic to see the objectives and the recommended audience.
Are the sessions free?
Yes, the sessions are free.
Do the sessions have to be done consecutively?
The sessions can be done on their own or consecutively based on the needs of the host organization.
How many people should be in the audience?
There is no set amount for audience size. We recommend 20-25 people per session for effective engagement.
Who can present a session?
Our sessions can only be presented by you, the financial literacy volunteer. The program gives our members the opportunity to give back to their community by teaching financial literacy from an unbiased perspective.
Can I bring in an expert to help present the session?
The only individuals who can present sessions are our financial literacy volunteers. If you do wish to bring an expert to the presentation, (for example, a lawyer), the only way they can contribute is by answering questions in the Q&A portion of the presentation.
What level of language should I present in?
It’s important to use basic language while presenting. It’s recommended that you keep terms simple and avoid complexity. A rule of thumb is to write and speak to a Classes 2/3 level. A key component is to understand your audience. Use stories and words that resonate with them. See our facilitator’s guide (included in the session package) for more tips.
How should I be dressed for the sessions?
Dress to your audience. We do recommend business casual as a suitable choice of attire.
How long do I need to prepare a session?
The recommended preparation time, especially if it’s your first time, is at least two hours or until you feel comfortable with the content. Friends and family can be great “practice” audience members.
For school workshops, do I need a police check and am I required to pay the fee?
Normally you do need a police check and, in the event this is required, you are asked to cover the fee. Please email us should you require a volunteer letter.
How can I inform the public about upcoming sessions?
You will find outreach and simple marketing materials in each session package.
Will the host organization provide AV equipment, venue booking and materials?
It is the host organization’s responsibility to provide these items. Check with them prior to the session.
Can I brand materials with host or sponsor logos?
If a session is being sponsored by another organization, you can use their logo on any invites that you send out. But any presentation materials, such as PowerPoint slides or worksheets, cannot be altered as they are developed and copyrighted by CPA Canada. You may put your contact information into the PowerPoint presentation.
Can I host a session at my workplace?
Yes, we encourage you to present to your colleagues. For example, at CPA Canada, we host regular lunch and learn sessions with our staff.
What do I do if I am unable to answer a question from the audience?
If you are unable to answer a question during or at the Q&A portion of the presentation, there is nothing worse than making up an answer. Tell the audience member that you are unable to answer the question at that time and offer to follow up after the presentation. Alternatively, you can reach out to us for help in answering the question.
What do I do if attendees want me to become their financial advisor? Can I give them a business card after the session?
As this is a volunteer initiative, you cannot sell personal services during the session. If a participant requests additional services after the presentation and as he/she initiates it, you are allowed to provide further information. But check with the host on whether or not it would be appropriate.
What do I do if an organization wants to pay me for presenting the session?
Our sessions are considered a community service. The materials were developed by CPA Canada and therefore no payment should be accepted. You may accept a token gift or ask that any compensation be made to a charitable organization on your behalf.
How do I deal with a difficult or disruptive audience member?
Most difficult people give up when their behaviour does not bring a lot of attention. Find a way to meet the difficult person individually (for example, learn their name and don’t be afraid to pleasantly tell them if their comments or questions are making it difficult for others to learn and enjoy the session). Refer to our facilitator’s guide for more tips.
What information and materials can I share?
Overviews and lesson plans may be shared. PowerPoint slides, facilitator guides and speaking notes cannot be shared.
If you have additional questions, please email us.
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