Pilot Program Launch: Empowering Financial Freedom

 Starting Date: August 1st, 2024
Locations: Poughkeepsie, New York & Wilmington, North Carolina

Overview

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our pilot program aimed at empowering financial freedom for veterans and underserved communities. Beginning August 1st, 2024, this initiative will take place in two locations: Poughkeepsie, New York, and Wilmington, North Carolina.

Objectives

• Veteran Intake and Assessment: Identify the financial budgeting and debt counseling needs of local  veterans.
• Financial Education: Provide comprehensive financial literacy training to help      participants manage their finances effectively.
• Personalized Financial Plans: Offer customized financial planning services to address individual  needs and goals.
• Business  Development Support: Create business plans for veterans looking to start their own businesses.

Program Highlights

• One-on-One  Consultations: Personalized meetings with financial planners held via Teams with Aaron Kershaw to create and review individual financial and business      plans.
• Advanced Intake System: Accepting voicemails and other phone-based inputs, making it easier for veterans to discuss their finances without the need to fill out      extensive forms. Our AI-powered system allows for story-based intakes, creating a fundamental plan from the veteran's narrative rather than a stack of receipts.

Special Focus on Wilmington, North Carolina

Wilmington has been chosen for its proximity to several military bases, allowing us to service the Army, Navy, and Marine Corps. The program in Wilmington will be directed by  Francis V. Paguio, a Marine Corps veteran who served in the Gulf War with our founder, Aaron Kershaw. Both are deeply passionate about military and veteran needs.

 Francis V. Paguio, deeply connected within the veteran community, was inspired by this initiative and eagerly joined the effort. He recognizes the financial challenges many veterans face, especially those transitioning out of the military who often stay nearby due to financial constraints. Paguio believes this program will equip veterans with the financial skills they need to thrive and relocate as desired. Having experienced financial restructuring himself, guided by Aaron Kershaw’s expertise, Paguio is committed to helping other veterans achieve financial stability.

Implementation in Poughkeepsie, New York

In Poughkeepsie, we will partner with a local agency already serving veterans to provide our services. By collaborating with established non-profits, we aim to reach veterans effectively and support them with our technology innovations for membership and literacy programs. We have already reached out to a few potential non-profit partners and are looking forward to working together to maximize our impact.

Spreading the Word

To start, we have created QR codes to accompany our comprehensive 52-page PDF book, which will be distributed throughout the veteran communities in Poughkeepsie, Dutchess County, Westchester, and the Wilmington area. This book contains essential information about veteran programs, inspiring stories, and other valuable resources.

We are aiming for a grassroots spread of this PDF, making it accessible to as many veterans as possible. The book will be updated annually and distributed through various partner locations, making it easy to pick up a copy for yourself or to share with family members like your uncle, grandfather, or dad.

We are also teaming up with local entities to display 20 x 14 posters with QR codes, allowing veterans to easily access our intake system from their cell phones. This initiative aims to make the process more accessible and less stressful for veterans.

Advanced Intake System

We are working on advancing our system to accept voicemails and other phone-based inputs, making it easier for veterans to discuss their finances without the need to fill out extensive forms. 

Our AI-powered system allows for story-based intakes, creating a fundamental plan from the veteran's narrative rather than a stack of receipts. This method aims to reduce the anxiety of managing bills and finances, particularly for those veterans dealing with mental health issues.

Why Participate?

• Expert Guidance: Learn from experienced financial planners and business consultants.

• Tailored Support: Receive customized advice and plans to meet your specific needs.

• Community Connection: Join a community of like-minded individuals dedicated to improving their financial well-being.

How to Join

To participate in our pilot program, please sign up using the form below. Spaces are limited, so early registration is encouraged.

[Sign Up Now]

Contact Us

For more information about the pilot program, please contact us at:

• Email: aaron@smartplanhq.com
• Phone: (845) 600-9767

Join us in this exciting journey to financial empowerment and community building. Together, we can make a difference!