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Testimonials
“I would like to thank you CCSA and your counsellors for the great alternatives provided for people in a financial situation. They make you feel welcome, show you respect and achieve your financial goals with your means. I am now debt free and able to save for a rainy day”
-A satisfied client who completed the OPD program
“What a terrific seminar [Achieving Your Financial Goals ]! The information was presented at a good pace, neither intimidating or too much at one time. I learned a lot about myself and how others manage their money. I would recommend it to anyone, no matter where they are in life.”
Our Mission
At CCSA, our mission is to educate Albertans in personal money management and the wise use of credit, and to provide alternatives for individuals and families facing financial crisis.
About Us
CCSA was formed in 1997 through the joint efforts of the Government of Alberta and stakeholders from financial institutions, educational institutions, professional associations and the community.
We are a founding member and first accredited member of Credit Counselling Canada (the national association of credit counselling organizations) and also a proud member of the Better Business Bureau.
CCSA is the only Alberta-based not-for-profit organization committed to offering guidance to Albertans at all levels of their financial needs through counselling, coaching and seminars. CCSA has a 10-year proven track record helping almost 300,000 Albertans with money problems, providing them with unbiased advice to create a brighter future for themselves and their families. We remain the exclusive provider of the Orderly Payment of Debts program in Alberta which allows Albertans to pay off their debts at a reduced interest rate over a period of time and provides full protection from collectors.
Money Mentors
We have always had a strong educational component, however, in order to meet the needs of Albertans, in 2007, Money Mentors, a new division of CCSA was derived. Money Mentors is aimed at getting Albertans more financially literate and skilled. We offer personal money coaching and educational seminars on a wide range of topics that include mortgages, couples and money, money personalities, achieving your financial goals, estate planning, and survival guide for post-secondary students. At Money Mentors, we are committed to providing services for community groups and social agencies. As well, we are able to service to the needs of the corporate community with customized lunch and learn presentations.
Board Members
Executive Director & Legal Counsel:
Jim Thorne, Executive Director
Monica Sharma, Legal Counsel
2008 Board of Directors
Christos (Chris) G. Tsaros - Chair
Public Member
Dave Mohammed - Past Chair
Retail Credit Grantors
Gary Howitt - Treasurer
Alberta Insolvency Practioners' Association
Lynn Sande - Secretary
Provincial Financial Institution
Ava Benoit
Canadian Bankers Association
Brian Buk
Canadian Bankers Association
Allan Mah
Public Member
Shane Pennell
Association of Canadian Financial Corp.
George Preece
Retail Credit Grantor
Lynn Sande
Provincial Financial Institution