A lack of finance and real estate knowledge is often cited as a key reason for the financial crisis that continues to grip the nation.

The California Community College Real Estate Education Center, in conjunction with the California Department of Real Estate, will hold a series of one-hour Internet workshops on Thursday mornings next month.

Participants may be able to increase their financial literacy quotient by learning the basics of budgeting, borrowing, buying, and beyond in the program entitled "Sustainable Homeownership – Stable Communities" authored and hosted by Chris Sorensen of the education center’s California Financial Literacy department. 

The following schedule has been set:

• Budgeting – Aug. 5 from 10 a.m. until 11 

• Borrowing – Aug. 12 from 10 a.m. until 11 

• Buying – Aug. 19 from 10 a.m. to 11 

• Beyond – Aug. 26 from 10 a.m. until 11 

Sorensen is a 23-year real estate and mortgage banking principle and expert. As a foreclosure prevention and loss mitigation specialist, he has worked with banks and lenders to assist financial institutions and homeowners.

His resume cites Advertisement

[ Berry-Bell and Hall Mortuary ] service as a Norco councilman and mayor and memberships on the Corona Regional Medical Center foundation board and the Western Regional Council of Governments and the California League of Cities.

In 2008, Sorensen partnered with Riverside County and other local governments as an educational resource for residents who faced foreclosure or were seeking to be first-time homeowners.

The four topics covered in the Internet workshops will focus on money, renting, home buying, understanding loan options and long-term home maintenance. The sessions are structured as public workshops, not commercial solicitations. 

Jeff Davies, commissioner of the California Department of Real Estate, has assisted with the financial literacy course, according to a press release. The classes will be held under the direction of the California Real Estate Education Center in San Francisco.

Visit www.freehome

ownershiphelp.org or www.californiafinancial

literacy.org to register or obtain additional information. After participants are registered, they will receive an e-mail confirmation and information needed to participate.

The California Real Estate Education Center’s Web site is www.ccsf.edu/reec.

Sorensen can be reached by calling (888) 723-7099.