Naomi Bechtold, AFC® is a true example of a qualified motivator of financial change. She is an Extension Educator from Purdue University who is running for an Indiana State Representative seat. In this week’s Friday Follow, Naomi shares why she felt called to “raise her voice” and run for a House District Seat.

AFCPE: What inspired you to run for Indiana State Representative?

Naomi: I was angry with the results of the 2016 Presidential election. Knowing that politics are local – and personal, I determined I would be able to best affect change at the statewide level. I decided running for a House District seat would allow me to provide a new voice and vision to move Indiana forward.

AFCPE: How have your experiences as a financial educator and AFC® influenced your passion and/or voice in politics?

Naomi: As part of my Educator role I am a Steering Committee member of the Indiana Assets and Opportunity Network. The Network “was created to increase asset acquisition for low-wealth Hoosiers and strengthen local economies through policy advocacy and capacity building”.* We hear from Network members from all over the state on current financial issues Indiana residents face and learn of innovative policies and programs being offered nationwide to help them maintain and increase their assets. I would like to work in the Statehouse to create asset-building policies to assist Indiana residents.

AFCPE: What issues are you advocating for?  

Naomi: I’m advocating for:

  • Fair Elections and Voter Access
  • Continued Investment in Public Education and Keeping Our Kids Safe in School
  • Ensuring Indiana Continues to be the Crossroads of America 

AFCPE: Our Symposium hashtag this year is #RaiseYourAFCPEVoice. What advice do you have for other AFCPE members and certified professionals who are interested in pursuing politics or advocating for issues they believe in?

Naomi: Don’t wait to be asked to get involved, especially when it comes to running for office, just jump in. Most people have no idea where to begin – I didn’t have a clue – so I asked the one person I had met who was involved with the county Democratic Party who I should talk with first. You too can find one person who is working in the area of your interest, then ask him or her to meet you for a cup of coffee. You’ll take off from there!

Naomi Answers the Friday 5:

  1. My Why: To help improve the lives and livelihoods of Indiana residents
  2. My Favorite Quote: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal:  it is the courage to continue that counts.” Winston Churchill
  3. My Hero: My mother, who turned 90 this past July and is a truly an inspiration.
  4. My Favorite Personal Finance Resource: Your Money Your Goals and the CFPB
  5. My best advice:
  • For someone starting the journey to financial well-being:

I give them so much credit for choosing to make positive changes in their life then I remind them not to try to change too many things at once. One small victory at a time!

  • For a new professional entering this field:

You are entering such an honorable field, helping others to become self-sufficient and achieve their goals. Learn as much as you can and never stop learning by taking advantage of as many educational opportunities as you can. Enjoy your new role!

Follow Naomi at:

Facebook: Naomi Bechtold

Website: www.bechtoldforIndiana

http://www.indianaopportunity.net/

 AFCPE supports all professionals regardless of ethnicity, race, sexuality, religion, or political stance. We are an inclusive and diverse community who believes in open dialogue and we celebrate efforts that help to advance our field and ensure that all people – regardless of income or background – have the opportunity to achieve lasting financial well-being. 

September 28, 2018

Naomi Bechtold, AFC® and AFCPE® Member

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