MMI Honors Media for Financial Empowerment Efforts

STAFFORD, Texas, Oct. 06, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- Money Management International (MMI), the nation’s leading nonprofit financial wellness organization, today announced the 2026 recipients of its Financial Learning & Empowerment in Communities (FLEC) Awards, recognizing the journalists, media outlets and platforms helping Americans understand their finances and find their way out of debt. The honorees include Sharon Epperson from CNBC, Andrew Keshner from MarketWatch, Tiffany Aliche from The Budgetnista, John Matarese from Scripps News, Azalea Iñiguez from Telemundo 52, and Justin Gray from WSB-TV Atlanta.

These award winners are helping people find their way to financial stability, whether through the stories they tell or the tools they build, according to Jim Triggs, President and CEO at MMI.

MMI’s research continues to show that trusted storytelling and accessible tools drive real behavioral change. Local media coverage featuring former MMI clients who have overcome debt has been shown to increase the number of people reaching out for financial counseling by as much as 10 times.

Launched in 2021 to recognize outstanding consumer finance journalism, the FLEC Awards are given based on impact, accessibility, and the breadth, depth, and quality of their work. The awards honor journalists, media outlets, and platforms that are making a difference for those facing financial insecurity and debt management challenges.

For over 65 years, Money Management International (MMI) has been at the forefront of financial health solutions, helping individuals and families break free from debt and build a secure financial future. As a trusted nonprofit leader, MMI is dedicated to transforming how Americans navigate financial challenges by providing expert guidance, innovative programs, and culturally relevant financial education. Recognized by major financial institutions and media outlets, MMI’s award-winning services support long-term financial stability and success.

MMI supports a network of more than 500 peer advocates in all 50 states who have volunteered to share their experiences with the media. Collectively, these advocates have paid off more than $22 million in debt and now serve as MMI ambassadors. Their stories are featured on MMI’s podcast, Long Story $hort.

For reporters looking to interview real people who have overcome debt, MMI provides a network of more than 500 peer advocates in all 50 states who have volunteered to share their experiences with the media. Collectively, these advocates have paid off more than $22 million in debt and now serve as MMI ambassadors. Their stories are featured on MMI’s podcast, Long Story $hort.