Hi there,

Hey Young & Free Michigan! I’m Shanacee Shreve your new Spokester! It’s still so unreal that I’m starting this new journey and getting paid to do what I love. A little bit about me, I’m a grad student at Wayne State University getting my degree in Media Arts. I went to Michigan State University for undergrad and received a B.A. in Journalism.

I love creating whether it's social media content, short films, or vlogs.  I’ve traveled the nation and parts of the world doing all the above. I went to New York, Toronto, Scotland, Ireland, and London and loved every minute of it. I also recently competed for Miss Universe Canada! Needless to say I’ve been on quite a few journeys and I’m excited to share this one with you!

If you’re anything like me, you put off purchasing books at all costs…literally. Bucks for books is a dilemma most students face each semester. Well, worry no more because the Young & Free Michigan team is here to save you the stress and struggle. Bucks for Books is a random drawing that enters you to win free money!! Yes, FREE! We randomly draw a winner and we’re giving away prizes of $200, $300 and $500 to our top three winners.

Oh, did I mention students at the school with the most entries will have an additional chance to win $500 in a random drawing? So, you have an even better chance of winning if you spread the word and help make your school #1. You can check the live leaderboard every day to see where your school ranks and how close you are to the moolah.

Beginning August 8 at noon, fill out the quick entry form at YoungFreeMichigan.com and BAM you’re done! You have to enter by September 15 at 3:00 p.m. so don’t hesitate! Good luck!

We could all use a little help along the way on our financial journey. Michigan First is here to help you on that journey with Accel – a members financial counseling group.

Accel offers free financial guidance without a sales pitch, student loan debt counseling, credit report review, and services related to buying or renting a home.

Visit www.accelservices.org for free eCourses, videos, webinars, calculators and other resources. Take the first step, call Accel at 877.332.2235 to speak with a financial guide who can help you navigate the choppy waters sometimes associated with managing your money as a young adult.

In this It's a Money Thing video, Jen learns what to check for when buying a used car and tips to get the best deal.

Can you believe we have only one month left of summer? Let’s make the most of it! There are tons of fun and exciting things to do in Michigan, get out there and have some fun in the sun before it’s too late. And, what better way to end the season than by entering to win a few extra bucks. Don’t miss out, enter our Buck for Books contest while you still can! Guys, I am so excited to do more giveaways and contests so stay connected. Follow me on all social media platforms for updates and check out the website for my latest vlogs and blogs.

Remember to stay young & be free,

Shanacee
Young & Free Michigan