Whether you’re navigating a tough client situation, seeing new trends in the field, or just want to hear how others are approaching similar challenges, this is your time to talk it out and swap ideas.

What to expect:

1. No formal presentation or facilitator, just open conversation with your peers in breakout rooms
2. Opportunities to share what’s on your mind and get real-time feedback

Breakout Room Topics:

1. Current Issues in the Field: Trends, shifts, and emerging challenges in practice
2. Client Challenges & Peer Support:– Strategies, advice, and lessons learned
3. Tools, Resources & Strategies That Work: Systems, templates, and approaches to share
4. Practitioner Wellbeing & Sustainability: Boundaries, burnout prevention, and support
5. Networking & Collaboration: Connections, partnerships, and project ideas

Bring your coffee, tea, or lunch, and join us for an hour of connection, support, and fresh perspectives.

This event will not be recorded.

The post Virtual Member Meetup Networking Coffee Chat: Peer Support & Current Issues appeared first on AFCPE.

Looking Back: The Road Behind Us 

Eighteen months ago, together with the AFCPE Board, Staff, and input from our larger professional community, we embarked on a 3-year strategic plan with a fundamental mission: To uphold and elevate the highest standards for financial counseling, coaching, and education, while also expanding access to AFC® professionals for all people in every community.  

Over the past few years, we’ve seen an increase in enrollments in the AFC program, but our completion rates have not been growing at the same rate. So, just as marathoners adapt to new running technologies and training philosophies, we knew that we had to  adapt our educational offerings to help ensure that more candidates can reach the finish line – prepared, confident, and inspired to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the people they serve.  

Setting Goals: Advancing with Purpose 

In developing the new AFC Learning System, our guiding principles were clear. We sought to: 

• Improve Completion Rates and Exam Readiness: We aim to support candidates in reaching their certification goals without lowering the high standards that are the hallmark of the AFC. 

• Create a Stronger Feedback Loop: By understanding where candidates excel and where they face obstacles, we can continually refine our educational components and better support learners at every step. 

• Build Motivation and Reduce Barriers: We set out to design a system that not only motivates learners but also makes it easier to stay on track – fostering the confidence required to sit for the exam. 

• Expand Our Independent Trainer Program: By empowering AFCs to become trainers, we can extend the reach and impact of the designation, bringing quality financial education to communities across the country. 

Each of these goals echoes a lesson from the marathon: success depends not only on individual effort but also on the quality of the support and resources available along the way. 

Innovative Features: A Tailored Experience for Every Learner 

The new AFC Learning System is a platform designed to meet learners where they are and help them go further. Some of its key features include: 

• Personalized Learning Path: The system dynamically adapts to their unique knowledge gaps, learning preferences, and pace. Whether they’re just beginning or reviewing for the final exam, their path is tailored to maximize their  strengths and address their  specific needs. 

• Interactive Learning Tools: Learners engage with interactive section quizzes, flashcards, and a variety of activities that bring complex concepts to life, making study sessions more effective and enjoyable. 

• Real-Time Progress Tracking: Learners can monitor their study progress and identify improvement opportunities, allowing them to adjust their study plan as needed. 

• Audio Learning Materials: For auditory learners and busy professionals, the platform offers audio resources that make it easy to study on the go – whether commuting, exercising, or multitasking in daily life. 

• Comprehensive Practice Exam: Candidates can prepare with confidence by taking a full-length practice exam, building both knowledge and exam-day readiness. 

The Impact: Empowering Professionals, Expanding Access 

The launch of the AFC Learning System is about more than technology – it is about people. It is about supporting the next generation of financial counselors, coaches, and educators as they work to make a difference in the lives of individuals and families nationwide. 

By fostering higher completion rates and ensuring candidates are better prepared for the exam, we are not only upholding our commitment to excellence but also making the designation more accessible to a wider, more diverse group of professionals.  

The Road Ahead: Join us on the Journey 

The marathon analogy is not just about endurance; it’s about community. Every marathoner knows the importance of encouragement from fellow runners, volunteers, and loved ones along the way. It is in this spirit that we invite our community – AFC professionals, current and aspiring candidates, AFCPE Members, and partners – to join us as we embark on this next phase. 

• Tell someone about the AFC Learning System 

• Make the case for AFC Certification in your organization 

• Learn more about getting your group certified 

As we pass this mid-way milestone in our strategic plan, we celebrate the progress we’ve made and look to the road ahead.  The journey of a marathon is not only measured by the miles we have covered, but by the promise and potential of the miles yet to come. 

With the launch of this new AFC pathway, we are well-poised to enhance the learning experience, uphold the highest standards, and expand the reach and impact of the AFC designation nationwide. Together, we will continue to run – step by step, milestone by milestone – toward a future where financial well-being is within everyone’s reach. 

Here’s to the road ahead, and to all who travel it with us. 

The post Executive Director’s Message: Reimagining the Journey: Introducing the AFC Learning System appeared first on AFCPE.

Farm families are unique for so many different reasons. Financial matters are a key area where there can be unique interplay between the needs, wants, resources, obligations and goals of both the farm enterprise and those of the family household.

This relationship is unique to farm audiences because it takes time, organization, communication and recordkeeping to ensure that the goals, wellbeing and success of family and farm enterprise are met.  

In some situations, farm income and resources may solely support the family and household while in others there may be off-farm income that brings in resources that support both. Alternatively, farming may be a part-time enterprise, and off-farm income is the main source of support for the family and household. There are some farm enterprises that generate income three months of the year which covers all farm and household expenses. Planning finances throughout the year is important. Coupling this with the unknown about how much may be coming in adds to the strain on managing finances.

Another example is when the farm pays for groceries because it can’t afford to pay wages for the family working on the farm. Each of these scenarios brings a connectedness between farm and household finances and the choices made about how resources are used to support the household expenses over time. 

Another unique aspect of a farm family household is the sharing of some of the assets and resources. Knowing who is paying for what is key to setting financial boundaries. For example, household electric and the farm truck may be used for the household chores; all paid out of the farm budget. Alternatively, the off-farm income may help pay some of the farm bills or debts during the time of year when there is little farm income. Tracking and knowing how money flows is critical to the success of the farm enterprise and the family finances. 

Some farm families combine all sources of income into one checking account for ease of managing bill payment and other obligations. However, there are benefits to keeping household and farm income and expenses separate by establishing a farm business plan and recordkeeping system that parallels a system for the household finances.  Aside from aiding in recordkeeping for tax purposes by making it easier when paying taxes, one will have more clarity on your business finances, overall business management and cash flow. 

In 2023 we partnered with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau which led to additional interviews and the opportunity to modify the Your Money Your Goals Toolkit for the farm family. That brings us to today. We are putting the final touches on the modified document and plan to lead some focus groups in the coming months to get feedback on the revised toolkit. Some items developed specifically for the farm audience include a Yearly Financial Planning Chart and Who’s Paying for What (farm or family). Other tools were adapted for this audience such as adding columns for on-farm and off-farm income and narrative in the modules speaking to the farm family audience.

The overarching goal is to have a toolkit available for farm families to address the challenges associated with family finances. 

For more information about the initiative, contact one of our team members:

• Laura Hendrix 
• Jesse Ketterman 
• Elizabeth Kiss 
• Lorna Saboe-Wounded Head 
• Maria Pippidis 
• Catherine Sorenson 
• Kayla Wells-Moses 

The post Unwinding Farm and Family Finances appeared first on AFCPE.

Shannon Himes, AFC® 

My private practice gives me the flexibility and creative freedom to incorporate targeted education for communities in which I live and serve. As a financial coach and homeschooling parent, I understand the unique challenges and opportunities families face when managing both home education and finances. This dual perspective has led me to create an engaging group workshop that addresses the specific financial needs of homeschooling parents and fosters a supportive environment for shared learning and growth. Additionally, I plan to offer classes for homeschool students, equipping them with essential money management skills from an early age. 

Additionally, to ensure a solid foundation for all clients, I’m in the process of developing an on-demand basic budgeting course. This accessible resource will cover fundamental principles, allowing new clients to grasp core concepts at their own pace before embarking on personalized 1-on-1 coaching. By combining group learning, student-focused classes, and a self-paced introductory course, I strive to create a comprehensive and supportive financial education experience for my entire community. 

Lisa Karam, AFC® Candidate

One of my top priorities in my newly emerging practice is providing education to high school and college students. Many times, we take for granted that financial literacy includes understanding money matters, from the basic to the more complicated. But I have found in adults that this is not always the case. In fact, many of my clients have never had formal education that enables them to better manage their money and money habits.  

My formative experience in this field stems from many years ago when I was teaching students – from middle school to high school and soon college students – basic skills such as how to make informed shopping decisions, how to write a check (yes, a check as this was before debit cards!) and how to manage your checkbook. Recently, I’ve taught personal finance topics to high schoolers. In my state, this is a requirement.  

I truly believe teaching kids early instills the knowledge they will need to make good financial decisions. I know it does not stop there, which is why I’m committed to helping people by providing vital information needed for them to reach their goals as adults. 

Julie Kovalaske, AFC® Candidate

Within my own private practice, I’m currently exploring providing educational services to organizations so they can offer personal financial training to their employees. This type of work draws on my background in learning and development and understanding how well-structured training can drive behavior change. 

These resources aim to equip learners with foundational knowledge in areas such as budgeting, debt management, and retirement planning, delivered through both live and self-direct online formats. Additionally, I’m considering tailored educational programs for organizational clients, focusing on the link between employee financial wellbeing and productivity. This approach is intended to provide learners with practical skills and knowledge that support long-term financial stability, augmenting the personalized guidance offered through coaching. 

Maddie Orange, AFC® Candidate

“Assume nothing and check assumptions.” I repeat that mantra to myself every time I’m about to begin a client session or workshop, and it has served me well. As someone who has served a wide range of clients, I’ve come to expect the unexpected: whether it’s a 25 year old who can successfully navigate real estate investing, a highly accomplished international development professional who doesn’t know what a Roth IRA is, or the almost-retiree who doesn’t know what their sizeable 401(k) is invested in. 

Whether I’m chatting with a potential client at a coffee shop or walking a group through how to open an aforementioned Roth IRA, my process infuses financial education at every step and to never assume they understand the “lingo” I’m using (or why it’s important). It’s not uncommon for me to explain what a stock actually is, why a “high-yield savings account” is a popular place to put emergency funds, or what a 529 actually does. I’ve learned how to weave this information into conversation in a compassionate way, creating a place where clients feel empowered to seek more financial education and take action toward their goals. 

Katie Ubelhor, AFC® Candidate 

In my Financial Alchemy Coaching practice, my content and programs are designed to provide practical insights and transformative experiences in managing money and mindset. While I cater my approach to the individual client, I’m usually teaching them the basics of financial literacy while also touching on their psychological relationship with money.  My approach focuses on uncovering and healing subconscious money wounds and using trauma-informed methods to understand and correct harmful financial behaviors. 

In helping my clients identify their “money scripts” – ingrained beliefs about money often rooted in past experiences or family dynamics – they begin to understand the emotional drivers behind their financial decisions and spending habits. My toolkit includes a money personality quiz, gratitude practices, financial goal-setting (including aligning couples’ financial visions), and self-awareness and mindfulness exercises. These tools help clients overcome scarcity mindsets, manage money anxiety, and develop healthier financial coping mechanisms. Through this holistic approach, I empower clients to heal from financial trauma and achieve financial peace.  

Amy Wohlsein, AFC® Candidate

As a private practitioner, I incorporate financial education into my coaching by focusing on helping younger professionals build strong financial foundations early in their careers. My approach goes beyond traditional financial coaching by combining personal finance guidance with career strategy. I cover essential topics like managing student loans, budgeting for rent or homeownership, building emergency funds, saving for retirement, and maximizing workplace benefits. 

With over 15 years of experience in Human Resources, I’ve seen firsthand that many people need a corporate big sister, someone to not only help them manage their money effectively but also navigate their careers strategically. The best way to save more money is often to make more money, so I help my clients increase their earning potential by developing new skills, working on securing promotions, evaluating job offers and ensuring they’re earning market pay. 

To make financial education more accessible, I’m developing a mix of self-paced learning programs that include 1:1 coaching and group coaching sessions to help clients build financial acumen and a professional network. I’m also interested in delivering tailored financial education to workplace Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), providing valuable guidance to employees and helping organizations support their teams’ financial wellness. 

The post How We Incorporate Education in Private Practice appeared first on AFCPE.

Engaging with AFCPE offers numerous opportunities to contribute to the advancement of financial counseling and education. Whether you’re interested in joining a Task Force, serving on the Board of Directors, or participating in the Certification Council, your involvement is invaluable to the strength of the organization. There are more than a dozen opportunities for leadership and involvement with AFCPE.

Why Volunteer? 

• Make an Impact: Your voice and expertise can shape the future of AFCPE®.
• Build Your Skills: Enhance your communication, leadership, and collaboration abilities.
• Grow Your Network: Connect with professionals who share your passion for financial education and counseling.

Get Published

AFCPE is seeking submissions for The Standard Newsletter and AFCPE’s blog. Whether you are a seasoned writer or want to be published for the first time, we believe you are the expert at what you do. We can work with you to formulate an interesting topic and guide you through the publishing process.

AFCPE’s quarterly newsletter, The Standard, seeks authors for articles on all aspects of financial counseling, including research and practical application. We rely solely on articles contributed by staff, AFCPE members, and experts in the field. The Standard is published quarterly in the months of January, April, July and October.

Read the most recent issue of The Standard here.

AFCPE’s blog is designed to provide new and insightful personal finance information for financial professionals – information that can be shared with both clients and consumers and provides new insights into education and practice.

See the latest posts on AFCPE’s blog here.

For more information and how to apply, click here.

Be a Guest on the Real Money, Real Experts Podcast! 

About Real Money, Real Experts

Real Money, Real Experts is a personal finance podcast written and produced by AFCPE®. With an audience of financial professionals, we strive to educate and entertain with a combination of expert tips, engaging interviews, and real-life storytelling. 

• Covering real stories about how professionals like you are impacting their clients.
• Offering tips from real experts on how to improve client interactions and grow your business.

AFCPE® ensures the highest integrity of the financial counseling profession by certifying, connecting, and supporting diverse professionals. Our comprehensive programs, the AFC® (Accredited Financial Counselor®) and represent the gold standard of financial counseling and coaching certifications. And our membership community offers a place to share best practices, solve similar struggles, and access tools and resources that advance your career and enable you to better serve your clients.

Be a Guest

If you’re doing interesting work in the field and would like to share your stories and expertise, apply to be a guest on Real Money, Real Experts! Fill out the podcast guest application and an AFCPE staff member will contact you if you are selected.

Fill out the guest form

AFCPE Board of Directors

AFCPE® is governed by a Board of Directors. The Board acts on behalf of the members to provide fiduciary oversight and develop the organization’s strategic direction. The Board is committed to ensuring accountability for the organization’s positive performance and to addressing the needs of AFCPE® professionals and the people they serve.

What We Look For from Our Board of Directors

Board Member Job Description

Are you ready to lead and help shape the future of AFCPE?

What We Look For from Our Board of Directors

Board Member Job Description

Are you ready to lead and help shape the future of AFCPE?

AFCPE’s Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion:

“Diversity and inclusion ensure a safe, positive, nurturing, and tolerant environment with mutual respect, free of prejudice. They celebrate differences, including those visible and invisible, in addition to thoughts and opinions that are essential for the involvement and empowerment of our society.”

– Definition established by AFCPE Diversity & Inclusion Task Force

The post Get Involved with AFCPE appeared first on AFCPE.

Dear AFCPE Members, Partners, AFCs, and friends, 

 I’m excited to begin the new year as your 2025 AFCPE Board President. It’s an honor to serve such a dedicated and passionate community of financial professionals. As we step into 2025, I’m reminded of the theme I shared at the 2024 Symposium: #JoinMe. This year, I invite you to join me at AFCPE by getting AFC® certified, becoming an AFCPE member, attending Symposium in-person, or contributing financially to support our mission.  

While AI continues to shape our world, there’s still something truly special about the human experience. Our unique experiences, insights, and perspectives are what make us stand out from artificial intelligence. Let’s harness the power of human connection to elevate AFCPE. 

To achieve this, I encourage you to: 

• Share your AFCPE related story via your social media, newsletter, and local media.  

• Share your value with potential clients and partners by using the AFC Resources page to customize a flyer you can easily share. Use this link to access it: https://www.afcpe.org/afc-resources/  

• Highlight your impact by sharing specific examples of how your work has made a difference in people’s lives. This could include helping clients avoid bankruptcy, achieving financial goals, or gaining peace of mind. The more you share, the more you help elevate your work and the work of others in our community. 

• Highlight your expertise by writing blog posts or articles about topics that are relevant to your clients and the financial industry. Share your insights and creative ideas on social media or through webinars. Help other professionals see you as a subject matter expert. 

• Engage with our community by participate the online communities, social media groups, or local networking events. Share your knowledge and experiences with others, look for opportunities to collaborate on projects, and learn from each other. 

Supporting AFCPE’s mission to positively impact the financial well-being of ALL people by ensuring the highest standards for financial counseling, coaching, and education requires all of us to think creatively and collaboratively about ways to elevate the brand and the organization. I welcome your ideas and encourage you to share them with the Staff, or via our online community. 

To measure our momentum throughout this year, let’s look for a 5-10% increase in the following areas: 

• Certification: Invite colleagues, career changers, and others interested in personal finance to apply for certification. Earning the AFC® demonstrates commitment to professional excellence and adherence to a strict code of ethics.  

• Symposium Attendance: In-person attendance at the annual symposium provides an opportunity to network with other professionals, learn about the latest trends in the industry, and earn continuing education credits. Besides, it’s also a great way to spend time with your financial friends!! 

• Membership: Encourage your colleagues, friends, and other financial professionals to become AFCPE members. There are many benefits of membership, such as networking opportunities, free professional development webinars, access to our online communities, and a catalog of discounts! I know how we love a good discount! 

By working together, we can strengthen our brand, increase our visibility, and attract new opportunities for the organization, each other, and the clients we serve. Let’s make 2025 a year of growth, innovation, and impact. 

I’m committed to supporting you on your journey. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions, ideas, or feedback. To help me find you, please use #JoinMeAtAFCPE when you make your posts. 

Together, let’s build a brighter future for AFCPE and the financial well-being of individuals and families everywhere. 

Dr. Brandy Baxter
2025 AFCPE Board President

The post President’s Message: #JoinMeAtAFCPE appeared first on AFCPE.

• Learn about the reviewer’s role and responsibilities in the grant evaluation process.
• Understand the key criteria and framework for assessing applications effectively.
• Gain insights into best practices for providing constructive feedback.
• Have the opportunity to ask questions during a live Q&A session.

Your expertise can help shape the future of evidence-based financial practices. Register now to become an essential part of this initiative!

The post Insight to Impact Initiative – Reviewer Training Session appeared first on AFCPE.

• Cost: $100 per month for access the entire Amplified Planning CORE Library, including 35+ professional development courses
• 100% virtual and asynchronous
• Watch new client meetings each month and see financial planning at work.
• Witness real-time feedback and decision-making breakdowns in a “post-game play” style in each course.
• Gain insights into handling unique situations and client needs.
• Execute on elements of a client’s financial plan, based on their specific needs and the assignments laid out in each course.
• Access a community of like-minded financial planners who want to learn together, discuss client cases, and network!

The post Amplified Planning Core appeared first on AFCPE.

Financial Mentors work with each Participant to help them take charge of their financial situation by understanding their own behavior(s) and adjusting those behaviors to fit their goals. Financial mentoring is designed to develop a Participant’s capability to manage their own finances and sustain economic security in accordance with their self-defined goals. It is also designed to build confidence in the financial industry through conflict-free fiduciary standards. The Financial Mentor meets with the Participant three times over 24 months to help set goals, monitor progress, and educate towards empowerment.

This ongoing, remote position offers the opportunity to partner with Participants each quarter. Volunteers have the opportunity to serve in one or up to all four quarters.

• Q1 meetings occur March, April, May
• Q2 meetings occur June, July, August
• Q3 meetings occur Sept, Oct, Nov
• Q4 meetings occur Dec, Jan, Feb

Roles/Responsibilities

Financial Mentor’s responsibilities include:

• Attend and successfully complete 3rd Decade® Financial Mentor Training with encouragement to participate in relevant professional development provided throughout service commitment.
• Complete post-training surveys to confirm comprehension and understanding of 3rd Decade’s core values, philosophy, policies, and procedures.
• Abide by all 3rd Decade curricula and avoid giving any advice outside the core philosophies.
• Maintain a high level of empathy and respect for Participant’s individual financial circumstances.
• Strive to support a minimum of 10 and maximum of 20 Participant Households annually through meetings, documentation, and communication outlined in 3rd Decade’s procedures.
• Utilize 3rd Decade’s Mentor-linked Acuity Calendar to schedule all meetings with Participants.
• Exclusively use technology platforms identified by 3rd Decade for meetings, documentation, and communication. 8) Abide by document storage and communication standards and policies.
• Commit to safe and confidential storage of Participant information as outlined in training.
• Act in the best interest of 3rd Decade and Participants.
• Under no circumstance solicit a Participant to become a client.
• Under no circumstance directly manage the Participant’s money.
• Stay informed and serve as an advocate for the mission of 3rd Decade.
• Adhere to 3rd Decade’s financial philosophy and procedures
•  Successfully complete a 3rd Decade financial knowledge assessment, if lacking financial certification/designation
• Complete 3rd Decade Financial Mentor Training

Time Commitment/Availability

Financial Mentors monitor the Participant’s progress over three one-to-one meetings held in Zoom and provide feedback as needed to help them stay on track. Financial Mentors can set their availability, traditional work hours (M-F 9-5) and non-traditional work hours (evenings, weekends) are acceptable. Specifically, support takes place through:

• Discovery Meeting (3 hours) – held after Participant has completed the 3rd Decade course curriculum
  • Designed to review current budget and discuss future financial goals.
• Progress Meeting (2 hours) – held 1 year after Discovery Meeting
  • Designed to check in on progress made towards financial goals.
• Final Progress Meeting (2hours) – held 2 years after Discovery Meeting
  • Designed to ensure they are set up for success beyond 3rd Decade’s support.
• Time to prepare before and after meetings with note-taking documentation preparation (1-2 hours)
• Occasional email or phone support at Participant’s request (1 hour)

Time Commitment:

• • 6 hours of self-paced training
  • 24 months commitment to Participant from each quarter start
  • Choose to serve 1-4 quarters
  • 7-10 hours per Household over 24 months
    (i.e. 1 Household = 7-10 hours over 24 months. 5 Households – 35-50 hours over 24 months.)
  • Choose to partner with 1-5 Households per Quarter

Required Qualifications

Financial Mentors must possess, first and foremost, a desire to serve the young people in this program, and have knowledge about

• financial planning and goal setting
• budgeting
• debt and money management
• risk assessment (insurance coverage)
• tax rates
• retirement planning and investing
• estate planning
• as well as skills in active listening and motivational interviewing (or be willing to develop)

Financial Mentors must also have:

• • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

Preferred Qualifications

Strong preference is given to:

• those already in the financial management or related fields
• holds or enrolled in financial certification program: Accredited Financial Counselor® (AFC), Certified Financial Planner® (CFP)
• completed Series 65 or similar designation

How to Apply

Please click here.

The post Financial Mentor – 3rd Decade appeared first on AFCPE.

Heading into the office earlier this week, I was drawn to the quiet beauty of the fall morning. The sun was not quite up, and the colors of the trees were vibrant – highlighted by early morning rays of light across a still dark sky. In that moment, the golden hour, I felt an immense wave of gratitude.

Fall is my favorite time of year, and it’s a busy time for AFCPE. We have AFC® scholarship applications open; we are gearing up for our annual Symposium; and the team is busy developing and delivering programs that support our community and the people that they serve. Sometimes between the hustle and the juggle, I forget to pause and take in the beauty around me.

But today, I intentionally slowed down and took the time to reflect.

What I am grateful for:

• The AFCPE Staff: For Michelle, Jarod, Kay, Noel, LaTonya, Valerie, Summer, Jessie, Ann, Heather, Zulairam, Tara, Sara, Sherry, Amanda, and Ashley. The AFCPE staff are thoughtful, innovative, smart, and incredibly passionate. They center our mission in the same way you center your clients. Their work helps expand knowledge, foster confidence, and build capacity to enhance the work you do to impact your clients and your communities.
• The AFCPE Board: For their active leadership in strategy, governance, business development, and financial oversight. For providing diversity of thought; for lending their time and unique talents; for championing the staff; and for their commitment to the health and longevity of AFCPE.To further demonstrate their belief in and support of AFCPE’s mission and goals, this year the board voted to become a 100% giving board in 2025.
• You: The AFCPE Community: As I reflect on all the ways AFCPE is making an impact in our field, at the heart of this work is you.
  • Thank you to those who have served as a speaker for an AFCPE webinar, lead a virtual member meet up, joined a task force or participated in an empowerment community, or shared your story on our podcast.
  • Thank you to the AFC® professionals who continue to support the Veterans Benefits Banking Program by offering pro bono counseling to our Veterans and their families.
  • Thank you to the group of AFC professionals who helped us create resources that AFCs can use to share their value. And thank you to those who are customizing these resources to share with clients and other professionals to spread the value of an AFC.
  • Thank you to the Government Relations Task Force for creating an Advocacy Toolkit that professionals can utilize to be a voice for change at the federal, state, and local levels.
  • Thank you to your organizations – nonprofits, banks/credit unions, higher education, and others – who are investing in AFC certification, membership, and capacity building courses to raise the standard for delivering financial counseling, coaching, and education.
  • And thank you to those who go through our programs and share your experience with others. Whether in a face-to-face conversation or a social post, your feedback helps amplify the value of AFCPE education, certification, and membership.

Looking Ahead

This November, the staff, board, and AFCPE community will gather. Together, we’ll share ideas, expand our networks, and go forth with new knowledge to expand our work and our impact. I hope to see many of you in Columbus, OH, but if travel isn’t an option, consider joining us virtually.

Why attend Symposium virtually?

• It offers flexibility for a busy schedule and omits the cost of travel.
• You’ll still be able to connect with onsite attendees and exhibitor resources through our interactive event app.
• Keynotes will be livestreamed to you on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday.
• You’ll gain access to more than 85 hours–worth of professional development content – recordings and on demand.
• And one day (Friday, November 22) includes interactive watch parties, virtual networking, and a fun, closing activity.

The AFCPE Symposium is where our community comes together. It’s where Purpose Meets Passion.

We hope you’ll experience it with us this November.

SETTING THE STANDARD,

Rachael DeLeon, Executive Director

Get Certified. Become a Member. Take an Essentials Course. Donate to our Mission.

The post Executive Director’s Message: Gratitude appeared first on AFCPE.

My husband and I closed on a brand new home in May 2012. Situated in a Boston suburb, we were lucky to be shopping for a home in a time when the real estate market was not incredibly competitive (compared to the past few years, especially) and when mortgage rates were low. We locked in a 3.75 fixed rate and jumped on a home where everything was fresh and new. As people who had no experience with home maintenance, tools or DIY projects, we were eager for what felt like a clean slate with no construction projects on the horizon. While it was true that nothing needed to be done immediately, we were painfully ignorant of what was needed to maintain the sparkling new systems and keep them working well long term. We would end up paying for not thinking about this.  

At closing, we handed over almost $90,000, which was every bit of our savings. For a few years, homeownership felt as easy as we had predicted. Small things needed repair and we googled or asked around for recommendations and got them fixed. One element, however, we ignored. The house has 2 decks and a set of steps leading to the front entrance: all were made of unfinished wood. We knew that wood needs to be stained or painted so that it doesn’t rot, especially if you have snow sitting on it for a portion of the year. We knew this, and we put it off, for the sole reason that it didn’t seem urgent.  

Over time the wood became darker and was obviously in need of refinishing. We hand scrubbed the front steps and part of the back deck, and after several years when I had grown more confident with tools and home projects, I borrowed a pressure washer to clean the front steps and back deck of algae that had grown. This helped a lot, until the wood on one of the front steps finally gave way under the power of the pressure washer, having been weakened by the softening and rotting of the wood over the past 10 years. Finally after 12 years in the house, we were forced to address what would have been a relatively easy project had we done it in the beginning. Nearly twenty thousand dollars later, we have replaced the front steps and side deck with a composite material that won’t rot. Our back deck remains unfinished, unused as it is dangerous to step on, and a reminder that not maintaining your home can be much more costly than doing the project upfront.  

Don’t Overspend on the Mortgage  

The amount that you pre-qualify for a mortgage is not necessarily the amount of money you can afford to spend each month. Tracking your spending for several months could help you to see what you typically spend on groceries, childcare, cell phone and other bills that won’t change once you purchase a home. Then add in new expenses (see below for some examples) and form a do-able mortgage budget. Setting yourself up for success on a big monthly payment can prevent a lot of stress.  

Think about monthly non-mortgage expenses 

Once you narrow down the location or possible locations of your home purchase, do some research on local taxes and municipal utility bills, if applicable. For example, is the town planning a new school or fire station in the future? This could increase your taxes down the road — though it could also raise the value of your home. What is the average water bill, if you plan to live in a town/city where water is billed? Finally, consider costs like electricity and gas. If you currently live in an apartment where utilities are part of the monthly rent, you could get a shock when those first bills roll in. And if the size of your new home is different from where you live now,  you could find that even if you are used to paying for light and gas, the size of your bills may change depending on if you are expanding your space or sizing down.  

Maintain what you have  

Having learned this lesson the hard way to the tune of $20,000, home maintenance shouldn’t be put off. Getting annual check-ups/tune ups on HVAC and other big systems can help these systems last longer and perform better — our central air conditioning unit’s condenser died this past year. Though we had had it serviced, the company representative who came to look at the unit said it appeared the filters had not been changed often enough and the coil not cleaned properly. These things made the unit work a lot harder than it was meant to and shortened the life span of the unit. Replacement will cost around $15,000. Unfortunately, what we learned is that you need to learn how your home works — don’t assume that an annual check up is doing everything needed, though it’s certainly a good start. Read the appliance manual — many times there are relatively simple things that you can do to help keep appliances, systems like your A/C or boiler or even your dishwasher running longer and more efficiently.  

Bottom line on home maintenance costs 

There is no such thing as a “maintenance free” home — even if projects are not obvious, upkeep should be budgeted for and considered on a yearly basis. An article written by AJ Dillinger for bankrate.com cites a study from Zillow and home renovation Thumbtack, which  “found that essential home maintenance projects average $6,413 annually.” (https://www.bankrate.com/homeownership/most-common-home-maintenance-costs/) In the same article State Farm recommends between 1 to 4 percent of your home’s value. The median American home sold for $436,800 in Q1 2023 so the median homeowner is going to want to set aside between $4,368 to $17,472 per year for maintenance costs .Jun 1, 2023 (https://www.bankrate.com/homeownership/most-common-home-maintenance-costs/)  

Honestly, the idea of setting aside so much money for home maintenance annually seems quite a bit more than may be possible for the average homeowner, and as financial counselors, we want to give our clients obtainable goals. While keeping an emergency fund is critical for all sorts of reasons, it might be a good idea for homeowners to put money into a separate “home emergency” account, and feed it when they can. Perhaps even automating a small amount to be deducted from their checking account each month to go to this home maintenance and emergency savings account would be a helpful suggestion for some families.  

Ultimately, just like for your body and your car, preventative care can go a long way. In an article by Terri Williams, Thumbtack economist Jack Erb states: “Like the body’s circulatory system, proactive home maintenance ensures longevity and lower costs,” Erb says.

Read about Home Maintenance Cost here.

While preparing for what you cannot expect (such as unexpected home damage caused by a a natural disaster) with some form of savings, having big systems serviced and performing seasonal or annual home checkups is good practice. Another way to prevent big surprises, even if you cannot prevent needing to spend money on big ticket items such as a new roof or new HVAC system, is to keep in mind how old different pieces of your home are — and the average lifespan for everything from your dishwasher to your roof to your smoke detectors. Budgeting for these replacements well before you reach the day your HVAC dies will protect your sanity and ultimately, your investment.  

The post When Your Emergency Fund needs an Emergency Fund appeared first on AFCPE.

This month will focus on client engagement. During this session, you will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions with peers, share your own experiences, and learn new techniques to keep clients actively involved and committed to their financial goals.

Below are the question prompts for the breakout sessions to help you prepare for the conversation:

Building Trust:

1. What are some initial steps you take to establish trust with new clients?
2. Can you share an example of how you’ve turned a skeptical client into a trusting one?

Maintaining Motivation:

1. How do you keep clients motivated when they face financial challenges or setbacks?
2. What motivational tools or techniques do you use to keep clients engaged between sessions?

Effective Communication:

1. What communication strategies have you found most effective in keeping clients engaged?
2. How do you tailor your communication style to meet the needs of different clients?

Technology and Tools:

1. What digital tools or platforms have you found helpful for client engagement?
2. How do you integrate technology into your practice to improve client interactions?
3. Feedback and Improvement:
4. How do you gather feedback from clients to improve your engagement strategies?
5. Can you share a time when client feedback led to a significant change in your approach?

Long-term Engagement:

1. What strategies do you use to maintain long-term engagement with clients?
2. How do you celebrate client successes and milestones to keep them motivated?
3. Challenges and Solutions:
4. What are some common challenges you face with client engagement, and how do you address them?
5. How do you handle clients who become disengaged or unresponsive?

Connect with other financial professionals from various industries, exchange ideas, and expand your network—all from the comfort of your home. Engage in meaningful conversations, discover new opportunities, and build valuable connections in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Grab your favorite cup of coffee and get ready to network with like-minded individuals eager to share, connect, and collaborate. Register now, and let’s sip, chat, and network together!

AFCPE endeavors to make our events accessible to any and all attendees. If you require assistance regarding the accessibility of this event, or if you would like to request an accommodation to participate, please contact us at accessibility@afcpe.org.

The post [Member Meet-Up] Networking Chat: Client Engagement appeared first on AFCPE.