Executive Director Message: Hope

Written By: Rachael DeLeon, Executive Director

Executive Director’s Message: Hope

In a time where things feel more divisive than ever before, where communities and families are navigating disaster and struggling to rebuild from unimaginable loss, it can be hard to find that thread of hope. But when I think about the AFCPE community, and the work we are doing – as individuals, as an organization, and as a collective, I cannot help but feel hopeful.

I feel hopeful because we have a board, staff, and community who are purposeful; who are passionate; and who believe in the humanity of each and every individual.

I feel hopeful because we are a community who knows that regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, ability, income, background, and lived experience that all people deserve the opportunity to live a life that provides for their needs and allows them to realize their unique goals and dreams.

I feel hopeful because we are a community that believes in high standards – not just for ourselves, but for those who we serve.

I feel hopeful, because we are a community of abundance, rather than scarcity. We know that there is work to be done, and we are ready to ignite our passions and lift one another up in the process.

I feel hopeful because community members like you have a passion to expand your knowledge, to share your research and experiences, and to work together to realize a collective vision.

When I meet with my staff and our board, we often talk about mission moments. These are the moments that ignite our passion for this work – and remind us why we do what we do.

• A testimonial from a Veteran who met with an AFC as part of our pro bono financial counseling initiative and walked away with much needed resources and renewed hope.
• An announcement from a candidate on social media who has just passed their AFC exam.
• A note from a partnering organization sharing how the AFC has improved their staff’s confidence and effectiveness with clients.

It’s moments like these – and moments that are happening right now, in your professional life, that remind us why AFCPE is so important.

We certify. We educate. We connect. But maybe, most importantly. We impact and we build.

And this impact is supercharged by you.

Take time today to reflect on the work that you are doing. What’s your mission moment?  How can we support you in your impact?

As we look ahead to the new year, lean into the AFCPE community and hold onto hope – let’s build the future we envision – together.

Rachael DeLeon, Executive Director
AFCPE

Mark Your Calendars: What’s Ahead at AFCPE:

• February 2: New episodes of AFCPE’s podcast: Real Money, Real Experts launch.
  Some of our upcoming guests include our new co-host Brandy Baxter, AFC®, Justin Chastain, AFC®, CFP®, Ericka Young, AFC® and Jessica Moorhouse, AFCC®. Have a question for our guests? Drop it in the comments below.
• February 3 – March 16: AFCPE will begin accepting Letters of Intent (LOI) for the Insight to Impact Grant Initiative.
  The AFCPE Strategic Impact Fund is seeking to fund collaborative projects between researchers and practitioners – projects that build connections, develop models, expand understanding of evidence-based practices, and increase access, equity, and capacity for financial professionals and communities served.
• February 11: You’re Invited: AFCPE Member Meeting: New Year Kick Off!
  We’re starting the year with new bylaws, new board members, and new opportunities for you to get involved at AFCPE! Join your fellow members at 3 PM ET on February 11 to cast your vote and learn more!
• February 15: Registration for the 2025 AFCPE Symposium opens!
  Reserve your spot early! This year we’re going someplace warm and sunny – hope you can join us in Phoenix, AZ! Never experienced an AFCPE Symposium? Check out our recap video from this year’s event.
• March 1 – April 15: FINRA Foundation Military Spouse Fellowship application period opens.
  The FINRA Foundation Fellowship is a unique opportunity for qualifying military spouses to earn the AFC® at no cost to them, thanks to the generous funding provided by the FINRA Investor Education Foundation. Join the interest list.
• March 15 – May 15: Submit your proposal to present at the 2025 AFCPE Symposium. We will be seeking both in person and virtual presenters to help make our 2025 program our best one yet! Share your research, innovative ideas, new approaches, or successful partnerships with financial practitioners, educators, and researchers from across the country. Stay tuned for more information!

New for AFC® Candidates: The Practice Exam Bundle!
Preparing for the AFC Exam can be nerve-wracking, especially when you’re not sure what to expect. That’s why we’ve created the AFC Practice Exam, a 2-exam bundle to build confidence, improve readiness, and conquer test anxiety. The AFC Practice Exam is available for purchase during registration or at any time as a candidate. Log into myAFCPE to purchase.