Organizations:

• Center for a New American Dream, 301-891-3683 – The organization’s Web site offers publications for purchase (such as brochures on parenting in a consumption-driven culture and a guide to simplifying the holidays), as well as information on how to get involved to spread the group’s “more fun, less stuff” message.

• The Consumer Credit Counseling Agency -counseling.org, 513-271-1680 – Provides debt-management solutions for customers nationwide. You can fill out an application online, and the CCCA promises that a debt counselor will contact you within one hour.

• The Consumer Federation of America (CFA), 202-387-6121 – This advocacy, educational and membership organization works to advance pro-consumer policies. It offers free brochures and fact sheets, as well as publications for purchase on its Web site. Topics include credit cards, credit counseling and predatory lending.

• The National Foundation for Credit Counseling, 301-589-5600 – Represents its member agencies, all of which are accredited by the Council on Accreditation for Children and Family Services (COA). Professional debt counselors will help you determine the best options to meet your individual needs.

Books