The Financial Peace University is an institution focused on teaching step-by-step plans (baby steps) to pay off debt fast and save more money for your future. Learn how to save for emergencies, spend wisely, invest and spend your money wisely in order to be good stewards of the financial resources you’ve been entrusted with.
You’ll be guided through the course by two Cornerstone Fellowship volunteers, Ruth Olesen and Rick Bindi who have not only taken the course, but are also Financial Mentors who are able to walk you through the content first-hand to give you ample assistance as you learn how to implement the tools and insights you’ll gain.
The material for the Financial Peace Course at Cornerstone Fellowship is adapted from the Financial Peace University course content developed by Dave Ramsey and associates with principles originally published in his book, Financial Peace, released in 1992.
Ruth Olesen: As long as I can remember, I have been passionate about managing money and personal finance. I started college at a very early age around 16 years of age where I attended the University of the Pacific in Stockton and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business. I continued to work full time and went on to earn my Masters Degree in Business Management.
Being on my own from a very early age, it was actually fear of failure that drove me towards an education about personal finance and money management. I grew up in a family where both my father and grandfather lived during the depression and I was taught what it was like to live in those times without money. I was taught that we all have a responsibility to be accountable to God for all our actions, including our finances. I was taught what the Bible teaches about money and finances and have lived a life working towards financial freedom and reverence to God. My closest friends and children will tell you I am obsessed with teaching others to live within their means which will bring you joy and peace of mind so that you can generously help others in need.
Rick Bindi: Maybe somewhat similar to Ruth's story, I grew up in a very big 'depression era' extended family and was on my own at an early age. I was always very fearful of not being able to 'make a living' / 'care for my family'. As a result, I was always working towards maximizing my income while keeping expenses at a minimum. Additionally, due to this fear, I read and talked to whoever I could with regards to money / personal finance with the hopes of making good decisions that would allow me to live a simple, financially peaceful life. In my opinion, this 'financial freedom' provided me with the opportunity to pursue other interests - i.e., working with the church / trying to help others.
I’ve worked more than 30 years in sales, marketing, finance and operations with family owned, private equity owned and corporations. Heidi, my wonderful wife of 28 years, and I have two awesome sons, Sam (22) and Alex (20). In my free time I enjoy exercising and outdoor activities of all kinds, especially hiking and tennis. I’m serious about my faith and strive to be a better Christian (steep hill to climb for me).
