Recently, Invest in Others and Savvy Ladies announced a collaboration designed to build community within the financial services industry, spotlight a mission-driven financial advisor, and strengthen awareness of the vital connection between financial education, charitable work, and long-term community impact. The collaboration reflects a shared commitment to empowering women through financial education, advancing values-driven leadership, and elevating advisors whose community engagement extends beyond their professional practice.
Through this initiative, Invest in Others will award a one-time $5,000 grant to a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization championed by an eligible financial advisor who is an active volunteer with Savvy Ladies. The selected advisor and nonprofit will be recognized during the Savvy Ladies Volunteer Summit on May 12, 2026, New York City.
“At Invest in Others, we believe that financial advisors play a powerful role in guiding clients, as well as strengthening communities,” said Barkley Payne, President and CEO of Invest in Others. “Savvy Ladies has long been a leader in advancing financial knowledge and confidence for women. Through this collaboration, we are proud to recognize an advisor who exemplifies charitable leadership and to provide meaningful support to the nonprofit organization they personally champion.”
A Spotlight on Our Judges
This collaboration and grant award requires a volunteer judging panel, who together play a vital role in ensuring the integrity, impact, and prestige of the recognition and grant we provide. Their expertise, discernment, and commitment to service help us honor the most deserving financial advisors who are making a meaningful difference in their communities. Without their thoughtful review and deliberation, this powerful recognition would not be possible.
Meet Loryl Ludgate
Loryl serves as Vice President, National Accounts,
CIM Group, a community-focused real estate and infrastructure owner, operator, lender and developer. She joined as a volunteer judge to help identify the recipient of this first-time grant opportunity for a volunteer within the Savvy Ladies community. We asked her a few questions to learn more about her perspective
What motivated you to volunteer as a judge for the Invest in Others x Savvy Ladies grant collaboration, and what does this opportunity mean to you personally or professionally?
“I was motivated to volunteer as a judge because this collaboration aligns to my values of giving back, empowering women, and supporting financial education. Supporting organizations that expand access to financial education is something I feel strongly about, especially when it directly impacts women who are working to build stability, confidence and long-term opportunity for themselves and their families.
Personally, this opportunity offers growth and reflection. Reviewing these powerful stories and initiatives pushes me to think differently, stay curious, and continue developing as a leader who understands the diverse needs within our communities. It reminds me that impact doesn’t always come from grand gestures often, it comes from supporting and amplifying the people and organizations already doing the hard work.
Overall, volunteering as a judge is both an honor and a responsibility. It’s a meaningful way to contribute to an issue I care about deeply, while also inspiring me to keep evolving in how I show up as a leader, a mentor, and an advocate for women.”
From your perspective, why is it important for financial advisors to support charitable initiatives and nonprofit organizations?
“Financial advisors play an important role in strengthening their communities. Supporting charitable initiatives and nonprofit organizations helps expand access to financial literacy. By getting involved, advisors can share their expertise, help close educational gaps, and contribute to a more financially resilient community.
Giving back also builds trust and demonstrates that their work goes beyond managing investments and that they’re committed to improving the wellbeing of the people and communities they serve.”
Is there a particular cause or type of charitable work that resonates with you, and how has it influenced your involvement in charitable work or volunteerism?
“I’m passionate about expanding financial literacy. Supporting organizations that provide education, resources, and guidance has inspired me to stay actively involved in mentorship, community programs, and initiatives that help people take control of their financial futures. It’s a reminder that even small contributions of time and expertise can create meaningful, lasting change.”
