As a young financial planner, Daria Victorov, CFP®, began her pro bono work with dual purposes: giving back to her community while developing her professional skills. Through her FPA Chapter’s pro bono events, she progressed from observer to meeting with clients independently. “Pro bono was a good learning opportunity for me,” she explains. “Sessions can cover a wide range of topics and you really have to think on your feet.”

As an advisor at FFP partner Abacus Wealth Partners, Daria participates in the firm’s established pro bono program. Like all Abacus advisors, Daria is asked to volunteer eight hours per year of pro bono financial planning. The firm hosts monthly planning sessions that participants can sign up for on their website. “Abacus makes getting involved in pro bono so accessible; there’s always an opportunity to sign up.”

In her pro bono work, Daria has been able to connect with clients affected by the California wildfires, guiding them through insurance details and the various financial options available to them after losing their home. “Together, we’ve discussed both the financial and emotional implications of whether to rebuild or relocate.” For individuals and families in crisis, pro bono financial planning provides access to a CFP® professional’s knowledge.

Beyond Abacus, Daria has pursued pro bono opportunities through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program to provide free basic tax return preparation for low- and moderate-income taxpayers. As a volunteer tax preparer, she helps people accurately complete and file their tax returns and understand potential deductions and credits available to them. “Taxes are so complicated for most. As a CFP® professional, I feel like I can guide them through the basics and help them make informed decisions.”

She also volunteers with Shalom Bayit, an organization working to eliminate domestic violence in the Jewish community through social change and community response.

Pro bono work has given Daria valuable perspective on diverse living situations. “Abacus has a wide range of clients, but working with pro bono clients is very humbling and rewarding for me. It’s amazing to see the immediate impact financial planning can have on their lives.” She notes that these experiences have enhanced her financial planning skills, particularly in budget management and client communication.

Her advice to other advisors interested in pro bono work? “Find opportunities and jump in. You can learn so much from pro bono engagements; it’s an investment in yourself and your community to give back to those in need.”

Disclosure
Abacus Wealth Partners, LLC is an SEC registered investment adviser. SEC registration does not constitute an endorsement of Abacus Wealth Partners, LLC by the SEC nor does it indicate that Abacus Wealth Partners, LLC has attained a particular level of skill or ability.