We want all our clients to experience this sensation. We also want everyone, regardless of resources, to get the jolt of confidence that sound financial guidance can provide.
Our team members have been big supporters of the New York Public Library’s financial advice program. (One of them spearheaded the program for a year.) This fabulous service allows people to sign up for a free 30-minute session with a financial expert. The program is targeted to low-income New Yorkers, but all types of people sign up.
Down at the library
We’ve met with school teachers, retail workers, retirees. For most of them, it’s their first time interacting with a professional advisor. Many come without a specific agenda, asking simply “What can we talk about?” or “Help me understand what’s going on.” They know somehow they can be managing their financial affairs more effectively. They’re just not quite sure what to do or where to start.
A man in his late 70s asks about the wisdom of investing in CDs at his bank. A 30-something looks for help managing credit card debt. A young woman of 22 tries to decide if she should sign up for a program to enhance her skills, as a springboard into a better career.
We love sharing what we know. We’ve spoken to students at Virginia Tech about vital post-college skills like budgeting and saving. We’ve counseled domestic violence victims at the Family Justice Center about what to look for in paychecks, and the fundamentals of wills and estate planning. We’ve helped neighbors run cash flow projections, to assure them they’re going to be OK.
In life, we all gravitate to things we love to do. Dealing with the complexities of money is something we all have to do. Wherever there’s an opportunity to help people acquire financial skills and understanding — and a little more inner calm — we’re all in.