FERGUSON, Mo. — On a Friday evening, Talina Deering went to a YMCA in Ferguson — not for recreation time, but for a two-hour-long session on how to balance a budget, rebuild her financial portfolio and become debt-free.
"I'm coming here to get more education about how to save money to purchase a new home," said Deering.
The city of Ferguson held what it called a "Financial Literacy Event" to kick off its 10th Annual Unity Weekend.
Experts had candid talks with citizens and business owners about many money matters.
"Our plan is to provide people with an action plan to say we have a list of organizations to help you with your various goals. We are excited to participate in our second Unity Weekend," said Eddie Mungai with Mobility Capital and Financial, a New York-based financial technology company with ties to St. Louis.
On Aug. 2, 2014, 18-year-old Michael Brown was shot and killed by a police officer.
The teenager's death touched off riots and unrest in the streets of Ferguson.
City leaders, sponsors and organizations later created Unity Weekend as a way to bring the community together.
Next week marks 10 years since Brown's death.
Mayor Ella Jones said Ferguson is still using events like Unity Weekend to heal and to help its citizens in a variety of ways.
"Ten years later, we are still working to have the best community for anyone to live in. No, we're not perfect, but we are striving every day to make this a very good community for people to work, live, pray and play," Jones said.
During Unity Weekend, students will receive free backpacks.
There will also be resources offered to families.
"Community Strong" is the theme.
"I like it. I like it a lot," said Kelly Keane, who's worked at a Subway sandwich shop across from Ferguson City Hall for the past 16 years. "I think it's wonderful for the people of Ferguson."