We can’t believe it either: it’s already time for a 2024 year in review! This year has been full of meaningful work and community engagement for Client 1st Financial.
Under the leadership of President and CEO Michael Fischer, we have seen thoughtful service in action. Unwavering commitment to supporting the community, dedication to continuous learning and eagerness to teach others about the power of legacy planning have defined Michael’s year. Keep reading to discover how these have helped Client 1st leave its mark on the greater Lehigh Valley.
Community Support
New Bethany Board President
In January, Michael stepped into a new leadership role: president of the New Bethany Board of Directors. New Bethany is a Bethlehem-based nonprofit offering hope and support to those experiencing poverty, hunger, and homelessness. Michael has been a board member since 2017, consistently offering his financial expertise and passion for their cause. In September, Michael attended one of New Bethany’s flagship events: Souper Day. This day brings the community together to focus on solutions for housing and food security. As board president, it was especially rewarding to see the community unite behind this cause.
Valley Youth House: Setting the Stage
Client 1st was a gold sponsor at Valley Youth House’s annual Setting the Stage in October. Valley Youth House guarantees Lehigh Valley youth access to resources, support, and aid. As a member of the Board of Governors for Valley Youth, Michael represented the firm at the event and even enjoyed a performance from Duran Duran!
Fig Lehigh Valley Launch Party
Who doesn’t love a launch party? Michael attended Fig’s fall issue launch party and caught up with colleagues and clients from ASR Media and around the Lehigh Valley. While there, he enjoyed a performance by the Mosaic Youth Chorus, whose conductor is one of our valued clients!
Supporting Local Nonprofits Through EITC
This year, Client 1st Financial proudly contributed $30,000 through the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program to support two impactful local organizations: PBS39’s Leadership Society and Valley Youth House, each receiving $15,000. Through their programs, PBS39 enriches the region with educational media and resources, while Valley Youth House provides critical support and services to empower vulnerable youth and their families.
Continuous Learning
LVEDC Annual Meeting
Continuous learning isn’t just focused on skills and industry insights but also on discovering the ever-changing needs of our clients. In March, Michael represented Client 1st at the Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corp. Annual Meeting, where he heard about the region’s economic status, gaining valuable insight to share with his clients and collaborators.
Osaic Wealth Conference
Michael reconnected with colleagues and financial professionals from across the country at Osaic’s Wealth Conference in Riviera Maya this July. He learned from industry leaders, exchanged ideas and explored new technological advances from Osaic to serve his staff and clients better.
Sharing Expertise
Osaic ConnectED Speaker
Michael was a speaker at Osaic’s annual national ConnectED conference in October. He shared his knowledge of the increasing importance of legacy planning with attendees from across the United States.
Junior League of the Lehigh Valley
Earlier this year, Michael Fischer led a session for the women of the Junior League of the Lehigh Valley, focusing on principles, values, and beliefs in legacy planning. He helped attendees identify their own core values and demonstrated how these can shape meaningful financial decisions.
Lower Macungie Community Center
During his visit to the Lower Macungie Community Center, Michael delivered an estate planning presentation tailored to seniors. Practical knowledge and a breakdown of complex financial concepts empowered attendees to make informed, practical decisions about their own futures.
St. Thomas More
Michael visited St. Thomas More Parish in Allentown to share his expertise on philanthropic giving and legacy planning. The presentation helped attendees to focus on their values and discover ways to leave a generational impact.
Podcasts
This year, Michael has appeared on multiple podcasts and even filmed his own. Most recently, he was part of A Conversation About Legacy hosted by Bill Rambo and featuring Erika Petrozelli, CEO of the Lehigh Valley Community Foundation. Michael dives into the personal “why” behind his philanthropic efforts and how he helps clients find their “why” when they give back.
Lehigh Valley Business Journal
Michael was featured in Lehigh Valley Business’s blog in March. In an entry titled “Legacy Planning Isn’t Just for the Wealthy,” Michael breaks down ways to make legacy planning approachable and why it’s an important consideration for anyone and everyone. Read the full entry here.
Community connection and education remain at the heart of Client 1st Financial. We plan to take these values with us into 2025 and continue empowering the communities we serve. If you are ready to explore legacy planning and discover how you can also make a lasting impact on your community, contact us and start a conversation today.