In a world where most of us “wear several hats,” we often lose sight of ourselves and our dreams. As an Accredited Financial Counselor® (AFC®), Walter Morris, is passionate about helping his clients dream again. In his work, he helps people remember their dreams and create a dream-inclusive financial roadmap – including budgeting, retirement, a great credit score, etc. – to realize their goals.

AFCPE: What inspired you to enter this field?

Walter: I worked in financial industry for nearly 20 years and 2 years in the social work field. Those experiences made me often wonder what happened to the customers whose loan applications were not approved. Having overcome the financial challenges of life early in my own career, I understand that working people can face tough economic times. Many services exist for individuals who hit rock bottom, but there’s a need for services to support working families through the process of building assets and achieving their life goals. I wanted to do something to change that.

AFCPE: Last year, you earned your AFC®. Congrats! What does having the AFC mark mean to you?

Walter: The AFC® is the gold standard in our industry and obtaining this designation ensures my clients that they are receiving quality service from a source they can trust.

AFCPE: Nice! So, what’s next? What’s got you most excited?

Walter: I will continue the work with Community Financial Centers (Cleveland, Ohio) and go on to complete my doctorate degree to research behavioral economics. I want to use research to work with expecting parents, especially unmarried custodial and non-custodial fathers, as a way to strengthen families by highlighting the importance of sound economics in family systems.

Walter answers the Friday 5:

  1. My Why: Because it’s the right thing to do. I use this as my compass in everything I do.
  2. My Favorite Quote: “It’s not what happens to you, it’s what you do about it.” – W. Mitchell
  3. My Heroes: The strongest & most giving people I know, my mother and father.
  4. My Favorite Personal Finance Resource: Journal of Financial Economics
  5. My Best Advice:
  • For someone starting the journey to financial well-being: Believe in yourself. Take a moment to put you and your needs at the front of your mind, not in a selfish way, but to remember that self-care is important to achieving any life goal.
  • For a new professional entering this field: Don’t be upset when clients get angry with you or with the information you provide. In most cases, they are fearful. It is your job to address their fear and help them to overcome it.

 

Follow Walter at:

Twitter: @Walter_CFC

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/waltersmorrisiiiafc/

Website: www.communityfinancialcenters.org

July 20, 2018

Interview with Walter Morris, AFC® and AFCPE® Member

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