Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Compass?
Compass is a nonprofit organization made up of people who are passionate about supporting families with low incomes to achieve their financial goals and become financially secure. We don’t exist to make a profit – we raise enough money each year so that we can provide great programs to the families we serve.
What does Compass do?
Compass works with people to get control of their money and work towards big financial goals that can make life better for themselves and their families. We do this in a few ways, including one-to-one appointments with a financial coach to help you reach your financial goals, access to ways to build your savings, and group workshops to learn more about important financial topics.
What does the program cost?
The program is free to all eligible participants.
Where do financial coaching appointments take place?
Financial coaching appointments can be done by phone or online video calls.
How often do I have to meet with my coach?
You will meet regularly with a financial coach to discuss and work toward your financial goals. In the first year of the program, you meet with your coach four times: at the beginning of the program, 3-month mark, 6-month mark, and a year from your first appointment. After that, you only have to meet with your coach every six months, twice a year. If needed, you or your coach may request additional appointments in between the required appointments.
Compass coaches are available for appointments during the weekday (including evenings) and on Saturdays.
How is my personal information kept private?
We take our responsibility to protect the personal information you share with us very seriously, and we want to communicate the policies and procedures we have established to protect your personal information. Click here for more information.
This seems too good to be true. What’s the catch?
Here’s the catch: Joining Compass requires that you (1) believe in yourself, (2) are ready to commit to achieving your financial goals, and (3) are willing to invest in yourself and your family by taking steps to reach those goals with the support of your financial coach and Compass. Compass is a non-profit organization, which means we measure how well we’re doing by the progress families make in our programs. Our financial coaching and services are free to all enrolled families.
Still have questions?
Contact us at info@joinfss.org or call or text 617-665-7433 and a member of our team will be in touch.
Compass Non-discrimination Policy
Compass works with housing providers and other partners to offer financial coaching and savings programs. We offer assistance regardless of race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, or age. Compass works with adults and does not directly serve minors in any of its programs.