DETROIT, July 25 /PRNewswire/ -- GMAC Financial Services has expanded its financial literacy program, SmartEdge, to now include curriculum on insurance and banking. SmartEdge, which reached more than one million people in 2007 with its automotive finance and mortgage curriculum, is now poised to expand its reach in educating consumers on key personal finance matters.
GMAC has made a commitment to educating consumers through SmartEdge seminars, online efforts and community outreach. A version of SmartEdge was introduced in 2002 with education tools on automotive financing. Mortgage education was added in the fall of 2007 and insurance and banking is now rounding out the program. In addition, the program's Web site, www.SmartEdgeByGMAC.com has been redesigned and updated with the new content.
"Buying a home or car and researching insurance can be complex, but it is important for people to be well-versed in these areas," said Don Ferguson, manager of SmartEdge. "GMAC is dedicated to financial literacy and strives to provide consumers with essential tools and information so they can make smart, educated decisions."
"We have designed SmartEdge to be a user-friendly program that is engaging for consumers of all ages. Additionally, the enhanced, interactive Web site will make the learning process easier and more comprehensive," Ferguson said.
SmartEdge focuses on teaching consumers how to establish good credit, manage a budget and evaluate financing and insurance options. The program and consumer tips are free. The Web site features online tutorials on automotive finance, banking, insurance and mortgages. Visitors can brush up on their financial knowledge via the Web site and become SmartEdge certified by taking the SmartEdge Quiz online.
Also new to the site is the SmartEdge 2008 "Get the Edge Instant Win & Sweepstakes." Prizes include a 2009 Pontiac G6, a 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt and Exxon Mobile cash cards. For additional information on the sweepstakes or to enter daily for a chance to win, visit www.SmartEdgeByGMAC.com.
About SmartEdge and GMAC Financial Services
Consumers can access current SmartEdge program information at its newly redesigned Web site at www.SmartEdgeByGMAC.com, via seminars and by attending one of the in-person events conducted by GMAC in local communities. In 2007, GMAC held more than 2,300 events and activities nationwide.
GMAC Financial Services is a global, diversified financial services company that operates in approximately 40 countries in automotive finance, real estate finance, insurance and commercial finance businesses. GMAC was established in 1919 and employs approximately 26,000 people worldwide. For more information, go to www.gmacfs.com.