A number of developments have begun to underscore the growing need for financial education. Surveys indicate that Americans have low levels of financial knowledge, as well as insufficient savings and high indebtedness. These disconcerting facts are especially salient in light of the current financial crisis, where plummeting home values, high unemployment, and weak economic growth have exacerbated the already weak balance sheet of many Americans. In light of this grim background, financial literacy has found itself in the spotlight. The topic continues to attract the attention of financial regulators, policymakers, and academics, and the demand for financial education is growing among community based organizations and their clients.