Olivia has worked for us for almost a year and a half and has been a huge asset to our team. We asked Olivia some questions and she gave some great responses about working for LSS in our department.
Why did you come to LSS – Center for Financial Resources?
Personal finance is a passion hobby of mine (I know, I’m such a geek!). I am grateful for the knowledge I have about finance, since so many people aren’t sure how to handle their money—and no wonder! Few of us learn this either at home or at school. There’s such a deep need. So last year I was looking for a way to put my knowledge to use, to give back by helping people build skills & confidence to manage their money. The Center for Financial Resources really appealed to me because the focus is on helping regular people with everyday finance: how to budget, buy a home, pay off debt, and save money. It’s not about helping the ultra-wealthy with tax havens! LSS has a strong reputation in SD for mission-driven purpose and high-quality service to the community, so I knew this would be a good place to invest my time and energy. I couldn’t be more pleased with the decision: the staff at CFR are amazingly talented, dedicated professionals, and I have learned so much from everyone.
What benefits have you seen from your time with LSS – CFR?
It’s deeply gratifying to work with clients over time and see their finances improve and their confidence grow. Money is just a tool to reach all our other goals, so when someone takes control of their money, it means they can take control of their life. Even though it can be a long journey to build up finances all the way to a goal, I already see immediate relief in clients just from realizing they are on the right track.
Why would you recommend CFR to others?
Everyone can benefit from reviewing their finances! And seeing a financial counselor gives you a helpful outside perspective as well as information about options you might not have known about—not to mention access to a cheerleader/accountability buddy! Most financial advice is very expensive (either in explicit fees or hidden commission costs) but here at LSS we are funded to provide counseling at low to no cost.
What else do you feel people need to know about working with CFR?
It does not need to be scary! Money can be SO emotional, but we can help make the process easier for you. And there’s no judgment: after all, it’s your money! We want to help you meet *your* goals, no one else’s. And we are available to walk with you for as long as you’d like. If you want to come in for a quick check-up and be done in 1-2 appointments, we can do that. If you’d like to continue meeting with a counselor for several months while you work toward goals, we can do that, too, at no additional cost. We’re here to help you no matter what your situation.
Written by Cassandra Johnson and Olivia Lima, Financial Counselor and Educator
Photo credit: twitter.com
LSS Center for Financial Resources
Consumer Credit Counseling Service | Housing Resources | Sharpen Your Financial Focus | Financial Fitness Education
705 East 41st Street, Suite 100 | Sioux Falls SD 57105-6047
605-330-2700 or 888-258-2227
www.LssSD.org
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