As National Volunteer Month continues, we want to highlight the boots on the ground volunteerism that permeates throughout the financial services community. Client-facing Financial Advisors often utilize their knowledge, skills, and resources outside of the office through their volunteer efforts.
We’d like you to get to know Wornel Simpson, a 2024 Invest in Others Volunteer of the Year Award Finalist, and his work with Team Sage (Scholar Athletes Globally Emerging, Inc.).
Simpson shared with us the key role financial advisors play in the community, how volunteerism is essential as a connector and facilitator, and the impact of Team Sage on elevating local youth.
Financial Advisors: Shaping the Nation with Expertise, Compassion and Community Impact
Why is volunteering so critical for Financial Advisors and those within the financial services industry?
Volunteering is critical for financial advisors and those within the financial services industry because we are the heartbeat of our nation. No other professional or advisor is in tune with the public and with our client’s goals, wishes and concerns for the present and future. We understand not just financial goals but learn about families and community concerns as well.
Why is giving back to your community through volunteering, especially with Team Sage, so important to you?
Giving back, particularly through Team Sage is important to me because I was an inner-city child at one time. Growing up in the 60’s and 70’s in East Oakland, there were many opportunities to learn and grow at the Boys and Girls Club, city-sponsored summer job opportunities, community programs by the Black Panther Party and the Nation of Islam, as well as other free initiatives such as ONBL summer basketball leagues.
There were also coaches and community organization staff who served as role models and were integral in my development and growth. These same opportunities no longer exist, and if so, there is a cost many families cannot afford.
One of my philosophies is that an at-risk child becomes an at-risk adult. Team Sage elevates our youth and my role as a financial advisor affords me the opportunity to not only support local youth but take that knowledge as a community member and better inform my clients in their decision making.
Financial advisors are uniquely positioned to understand and address the diverse needs of their communities, owing to their professional training, client interactions, and ongoing commitment to education. Several factors highlight their preparedness such as this Barron’s stat that indicates that advisors who underwent specialized training in financial coaching experiencing a 22% increase in assets under management compared to their peers. This approach not only deepens advisors’ understanding of client needs but also fosters stronger, trust-based relationships.
Can you highlight an individual past event and focus on the difference your volunteers made?
At a recent tournament in the Bay Area, volunteers, both parents and coaches, provided transportation, water, and snacks for two teams traveling from Sacramento. All four coaches are volunteers and freely give hours of their time over the week. While these hours may not be in the office or directly client related, these “courtside chats” are informative, inspiring, and are always provided by a selected executive, personality or community leader.
As financial advisors, we are entrusted with providing advice, product and strategy recommendations and contacts. The best way to accomplish this is to be involved in your community by becoming a connector and facilitator. Volunteering is essential.
Being in Tune through Volunteerism Builds Strong Connections and Community
Can you share the story of one member of your community who’s been helped by volunteers?
One of our scholar-athletes from a single-parent household received a lot of support from coaches, mentors, and “other parents,” however, he did not make his high school’s varsity team and joined Team Sage. He was dedicated and became an integral part of our rotation. Although his parental contributions were limited, Team Sage made sure he had the same resources as the other youth. This young man has now graduated from college, is doing well and is a model citizen. Being in tune with the community through volunteerism builds strong connections and ensures a brighter future for all.
Team SAGE is hosting an educational workshop for greater Sacramento
area amateur athletes: Project Time Out: Healthy Body, Healthy Mind
Location: SMUD Museum of Science and Curiosity 400 Jibboom St, Sacramento, CA 95811
When: Saturday, April 19, 2025
Time: 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
