Diamond Credit Union representatives Paul Schwab, left, and Lori Levengood talk with a student after their presentation this month

POTTSTOWN PA – Pottstown High School students are getting real-life financial help from some local experts.

Representatives of Diamond Credit Union, which has its headquarters on Medical Drive in Lower Pottsgrove (PA) Township, are continuing a series of four high school visits each semester to offer their knowledge and professional experience as part of the students’ Personal Finance classes.

A Dec. 7 (2011) presentation titled “Credit, Credit Scores, and Not Paying” was the latest activity in the partnership between Diamond and the Pottstown School District, district Community Relations Director John Armato said. It featured Lori Levengood, Diamond’s vice president of lending, and Debt Counseling Manager Paul Schwab. They answered questions about the value of a good credit score and the repercussions of not repaying debts.

“Knowing how to balance your personal finances is a life skill that is even more important in current economic conditions. We’re happy to illustrate the real life applications of what the students are learning in class, and feel privileged to be able to add to the depth of their understanding of personal finance topics,” said Todd Rothenberger, Diamond vice president of marketing.

During previous visits, representatives discussed “Budgeting,” “How a Financial Institution Works,” and “The Difference Between Banks and Credit Unions.” Diamond is also scheduled to visit the class in January to discuss protection from identity theft.

Diamond is the 18th largest credit union in Pennsylvania. It has two additional offices in Reading, and holds more than $372 million in assets for more than 40,000 members.

Photo from Diamond Credit Union