Action Kit Overview
The Ready to Rent Action Kit is the set of materials used by participants; it is “the curriculum.” The Kit comes in a "standard" format and an "adapted" version created for those students who may need additional learning enhancements.
Ready to Solve Problems includes participants completing their "Action Plan" contract, based on identified challenges in the areas of Rental History, Money Management, Income, Credit and Finance, Legal Problems, or other identified issues. Interactive workstations are established in the classroom around each of these topics, with work plans for participants to undertake and complete.
Ready to Prepare Finances focuses on producing a workable budget or "spending plan." Participants begin with choosing and prioritizing goals. Then they take a look at current spending habits and compare it to an analysis of their income. They stop briefly to consider moving expenses, and with a proposed spending plan that sets them on the road to renting.
Ready to Shop for a Home has four major themes: Finding a home; roommates; the application process; and an introduction to the rental agreement. Participants begin by revisiting housing needs and wants identified and prioritized in the first class. Participants use these priorities to create a shopping list to screen available rental units. After learning to read rental listings, participants model communication skills for making calls and talking to landlords.
Ready to Settle In is all about being a successful renter. The class begins by examining the rental agreement in close detail. Participants then identify problem-solving strategies and practice their skills in implementing them. Two significant piece of this class is making a home safety plan and strategies for avoiding eviction. This session is designed to strengthen the message that participants must understand and follow the rules in their rental agreements. Further, when problems arise, they must address them in a business-like way.
Ready to Move On is the last class of the series and is focused on how to end a tenancy successfully as well as celebrating their completion of the Ready To Rent course. Learning activities are directed toward "moving on" to a new place. The content emphasizes ordinary and proper moving procedures but also considers the possibility of eviction. During previous sessions, participants were encouraged to collect questions they may need "expert" help with moving forward in their housing journey. With the help of their instructor and a "Participant Post Graduation Plan," they will have the opportunity to have them answered by guest experts, or referred to resources in the community. At the conclusion of this class, or at a later date, a graduation ceremony is held to reward their hard work and celebrate what they have accomplished.
