EMPOWERED FAMILIES, PRESERVED FAITH: STRENGTHENING SPIRITUALITY AND ECONOMIC LITERACY

Abstract

This Collaborative Community Service Program aims to strengthen family resilience by integrating spiritual values with economic literacy. The initiative responds to the dual challenges faced by many households: maintaining religious commitment while improving financial management skills amid rapid socio-economic change. The program was carried out in a suburban area characterized by diverse economic backgrounds and strong religious traditions. Activities included interactive workshops on household financial planning, debt management, and micro-enterprise development, combined with spiritual guidance sessions and the reinforcement of ethical decision-making. A participatory approach was applied by engaging families as active learners and contributors in the preparation of training materials. Data were collected through pre- and post-program surveys, focus group discussions, and field observation notes. The results show significant improvements in budget planning, saving strategies, and income diversification, accompanied by stronger awareness that spiritual principles support disciplined financial behavior. Participants reported greater confidence in making economic decisions aligned with their faith. These findings affirm that integrating spirituality with economic education can enhance both financial competence and moral resilience, providing a holistic and sustainable model for family empowerment.