From Overwhelm to Action: Creating “Buy-In” in Pro Bono Financial Planning

You’ve seen it happen in pro bono work. A client schedules an appointment and shows up hopeful—but overwhelmed. They nod along during the session, yet follow-through is limited. Or life gets in the way and momentum stalls after just one meeting. Sometimes, clients don’t show up at all.

In pro bono financial planning, this isn’t a failure of advice or effort. More often, it’s a lack of buy-in. Buy-in is the foundation that helps clients feel capable, motivated, and supported—especially when time is limited and financial stress is high. When buy-in is present, clients are more likely to engage, take action between sessions, and make meaningful progress, even within short-term or volunteer-led engagements.

In this free webinar, Kelsa Dickey will share a practical, client-centered framework designed to help nonprofit staff, CFP® professionals, and AFC® professionals intentionally create buy-in at key touchpoints in the client relationship. Participants will learn how thoughtful communication, realistic expectations, and intentional touchpoints can increase participation, improve follow-through, and lead to more meaningful outcomes for both clients and volunteers.