Volunteerism has long been a cornerstone of strong communities, but in the financial advising profession, it carries an even deeper significance. Advisors don’t just manage wealth; they help people build security, confidence, and opportunity. That’s why so many professionals in the field feel a natural pull toward giving back.
For Melissa Kretschmer, National Account Manager at SEI, that motivation is both personal and professional. As a judge for the Invest in Others x Savvy Ladies grant collaboration, she has a front-row seat to the powerful impact volunteers at Savvy Ladies are making, particularly in expanding access to financial education.
“I am the first one in my immediate family to graduate from college,” Kretschmer shared. “I had to explain to my parents about saving for retirement once I entered the business. Having free financial resources available to women is a great way to share knowledge with people.”
Her perspective underscores how transformative financial literacy can be, especially for individuals and families who may not have had access to that knowledge before. Programs like this collaboration help close those gaps, empowering more people to take control of their financial futures.
Serving as a judge has also deepened Kretschmer’s appreciation for the nonprofit sector. “I am always enamored with all the charities that are in the finals for the Invest in Others awards,” she said. “It makes me want to do more.” Exposure to innovative, mission-driven organizations often inspires advisors to further expand their own philanthropic involvement.
From a professional standpoint, Kretschmer sees volunteerism as a natural extension of an advisor’s role. “Everyone we meet in life we learn something from,” she noted. “Financial advisors can help charities not only with donations but by making connections and providing valuable resources.” Beyond financial contributions, advisors bring expertise, networks, and strategic insight that can help nonprofits grow and better serve their communities.
For Kretschmer, volunteerism is also deeply personal. She recently became involved with Lax Out Cancer, a local organization that supports individuals battling cancer in the Shoreham Wading River Lacrosse community. “My aunt and father-in-law recently passed away from cancer, and it is nice to see how they can help out local communities,” she shared. Her involvement reflects how personal experiences often shape and deepen one’s commitment to giving back.
During April’s Volunteer Month, perspective like Kretschmer’s serves as a powerful reminder: volunteerism isn’t separate from the work financial professionals do, it’s an extension of it. By sharing knowledge, supporting meaningful causes, and investing time in their communities, advisors can create impact far beyond their day-to-day roles.
In an industry built on trust and long-term relationships, giving back isn’t just meaningful, it’s essential.
To find out more about the Invest in Others x Savvy Ladies collaboration, check out the recent press release. You can also see who our judges, like Melissa, chose for the Invest in Others Volunteer of the Year Award, featuring a $5,000 grant, by attending the Savvy Ladies 2026 Volunteer Summit.
The second annual Savvy Ladies Volunteer Summit brings together current and prospective Helpline volunteers for an afternoon of thoughtful discussions, shared best practices, and insights from the Helpline. Join fellow pro bono financial professionals making a meaningful impact and connect with a community dedicated to empowering women through trusted guidance. Register for free below to attend in person or join the livestream.
Tuesday, May 12, 2026, 11:45 AM to 5:00 PM ET | Hippodrome Building, 1120 6th Ave, New York, NY
Attend In Person
Get the Livestream Link
Savvy Ladies volunteers are CFPs™, CPAs, ChFCs, CLUs, EAs, CSLP®s, CDFA®’s, MSFSs, and MBAs (with a financial planning concentration) who are committed to empowering women through trusted, unbiased guidance. Through the Savvy Ladies Free Financial Helpline, they provide pro bono support to clients, answering financial questions via phone, email, or video call.
If you are a financial professional interested in becoming a volunteer, you’re welcome to join us at the Summit!
