Happy 2018 from the AFCPE National Office! We have carried the momentum and excitement from 2017 into the New Year and have already hit the ground running.

Last year’s Annual Research and Training Symposium was nothing short of powerful. Sessions focused on diversity, inclusion, and wide ranging issues affecting our country, for which our professionals are uniquely equipped to work together to bridge the gaps. We talked about important issues, like the racial and gender wealth gap, communication and behavior change, incorporating research and practice, and building the continuum of care with our financial planning colleagues. As always, AFCPE professionals also gave back to the local community by offering pro bono financial counseling services to San Diego residents.

As we’ve grown as an organization, so has the influence and impact of our professionals. AFCPE professionals play a crucial role in our field and in critical national issues that impact financial security. More specifically, we have a role and responsibility to address systemic and societal problems that plague the economic security of people across our nation; issues like consumer protection, the rising levels of income and wealth inequality, skyrocketing student debt, declining wages, and decreased savings.

We believe in setting a high standard of excellence for the field of financial counseling and coaching because it is the right thing to do. It is right to demand rigor and excellence for all people, not just those with wealth. It is right to have a strong commitment to knowledge and skill because there is no one-size fits all approach to finances. It is right to care about our clients and communities and use our expertise to help them reach their life goals and obtain financial security.

So, as we embark on a new year, it is my hope that we will work together across our areas of expertise to face these complex issues. Our field, our professionals, and our organization, in particular, are a vital part of the solution.

We remain focused on building awareness for the value of your work and for the importance of the rigor and standards we have set for the financial counseling, coaching and education professions. We continue to develop partnerships and expand outreach through government relations efforts. Research remains an important pillar of our strategic plan, as the launch of the qualitative study of financial counseling, financial coaching, and financial education approaches. Help us continue to strengthen the continuum of care across the field and demand the highest standards of professionalism for all people. Your work, your voice, and your advocacy make a difference.

Spread the word! Encourage colleagues to get involved:

Membership: Join a diverse and inclusive network of financial educators, researchers and practitioners to exchange ideas, share best practices and influence change. AFCPE® membership offers important benefits to enhance your work and your career, including a strong network, cutting edge research and information and professional development.

Certification: Earn the gold standard, nationally recognized credentials for financial counseling and financial coaching to help you make a difference in the lives of the individuals and families that you serve, by meeting them where they are and guiding them on a new financial path.

Support our Initiatives: Provide scholarships or funding to support certification opportunities for community groups, nonprofit professionals or students, or partner with us to enhance the nation’s financial capability.

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