2012 Cystinosis Fun Run/Walk

On May 6^th we will hold the 6^th Annual Cystinosis Fun Run/Walk in honor of our daughter, Kacy Wyman.  In the past we have had over 300 walkers and runners support the event and Kacy. We understand that there are many worthy causes and feel very fortunate that so many have chosen to support Kacy’s cause in the past – and appreciate you considering a financial contribution for our May 6^th event. All proceeds benefit Cystinosis Research Network. CRN is an all-volunteer, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. The CRN Federal Tax ID# is 04-3323789.

Thanks to 37 pills a day, eye drops 8-10 times per day and 7 liters of water Kacy’s condition is stable – but we need a cure. Your financial support is making a difference in Kacy’s life and all of the children enduring this rare disease called Cystinosis (Sis-ta-know-sis). Your support drives research and gives us hope that a cure will be found during Kacy’s lifetime.  Thank you again for considering.

With Love & Gratitude,
Tim & Jen Wyman

Checks should be made payable and sent to:
Cystinosis Research Network
c/o Center for Financial Planning, Inc.
40 Oak Hollow Street, Suite 125
Southfield, MI 48033

Aging in Lansing

Sandy Adams and Laurie Renchik weren’t seeking the fountain of youth on a recent trip to Lansing, rather they went in search of important information on aging. The two met with State of Michigan officials in the Office of Services to the Aging (OSA). As representatives for the MI Financial Planning Association (FPA), Sandy and Laurie were fact-finding in a couple of key areas:

Talking about senior financial fraud and abuse issues

•  Learning how the Government Relations Committee of Michigan’s FPA can support legislation designed to protect seniors from financial fraud and abuse
• Exploring what non-legislative opportunities exist to assist OSA staff and their senior resource hotline

Finding out what our State Agencies know about the FPA, the financial planning profession and the Certified Financial Planner™ designation (CFP®)

• The meeting helped Sandy and Laurie understand the opportunity to provide education about licensing and the meaning of credentials advisors use in the financial planning industry
• We also provided Michigan OSA officials with information about the full extent of the relationships and services we provide to our clients

Sandy found the trip was very enlightening. “I feel good knowing that we started the process of educating the OSA about our industry and that we will be providing important input to them as they propose and support legislation to protect seniors in our state.”  

Laurie agreed that the trip was an eye-opener. “The dialogue was open and confirmed that we can be a resource to elected officials, state government and the citizens of Michigan.”  She added that it takes a collaborative effort to understand how everyone can work together to protect at-risk seniors from financial fraud and abuse. 

Governor Delivers Bright Forecast

Calling for the people of Michigan to take “relentless positive action,” Governor Rick Snyder delivered the keynote address for the Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber’s Annual Government Forecast.  Five Center team members and their guests were on hand, along with about 300 attendees to hear Governor Snyder share an inspiring and positive message that focused on common-sense solutions for Michigan’s future and politics. 

Instead of putting the focus on divisive issues, he wants to find ways, during times of economic unrest, to move the state and its economy forward. After Governor Synder delivered his “the year of Good Government” themed message, attendees had ample opportunity to participate in a lively question and answer period.  Please visit Birmingham Patch for additional event highlights and news.

Center team members in attendance were Tim Wyman, Laurie Renchik, Dan Boyce, Melissa Joy and Troy Wyman.

Sandy Adams Appointed to the Wayne State University Institute of Gerontology’s Board of Visitors

Sandy Adams was recently appointed to the Board of Visitors for the Institute of Gerontology (IOG) at Wayne State University.  Sandy, who also serves on the Legal and Financial Advisory committee for the IOG, has served as the liaison to the Board of Visitors for the last two years.  “I am very excited to be involved with the Institute of Gerontology through the Board of Visitors to assist in further research, outreach and advocacy for older adults,” Sandy expressed, of her recent appointment.

 The Board of Visitors is a selected group of individuals with a commitment to and support of the mission of the Institute of Gerontology at Wayne State University.  They serve the IOG on a volunteer basis by assisting in fundraising activities, providing advisory council to the Director and select staff and by acting as ambassadors in the community. Center for Financial Planning, Inc.  continues to be a partner of the Institute of Gerontology,supporting the IOG’s mission to conduct research in the social and behavioral sciences and cognitive neuroscience to issues of aging and urban health.  The IOG uses this research to provide further education to the professional community and the public through outreach and professional partnership.

Laurie Renchik Honored to Share The Center's Wellness Efforts

The Center’s health and wellness initiatives were recently recognized by both the American Heart Association and Blue Care Network for building a culture of health and wellness in the workplace. 

A key factor in the program’s continued success since 2008 has been the positive power of wellness champions within the firm creating grassroots commitment within the firm.  

Accolades from Blue Care Network’s Healthy Blue Living program resulted in an invitation to sit on a wellness panel at a BCN’s recent five year anniversary event in Southfield.  

Planner Laurie Renchik represented the Center wellness initiative on the panel, sharing stories about activities and healthy practices adopted at the Center.

The Center Honored as AHA 2011 Start! Fit-Friendly Platinum Status Company

For four consecutive years the Center has been recognized as an American Heart Association Start! Fit-Friendly Company. 

For the most recent two years the firm received Platinum status, the highest recognition level.

To achieve this award the health and wellness program met the following criteria:

•  Physical activity options in the workplace
• Healthy eating options at the worksite
• Promotion of a wellness culture
• Implement at least nine criteria outlined by the AHA in the areas of physical activity, nutrition  and culture
• Demonstrate measurable outcomes related to workplace wellness.

Laurie Renchik Supports “Women of Words” Fundraising Event

Michigan Women’s Media recently hosted a “Women of Words” fundraiser to kick-start its annual Women and Journalism Internship.  Three Michigan authors headlined the evening by talking about their work and passion for writing. 

The historic Masonic Hall in downtown Farmington provided a wonderful venue for the event.  Guests enjoyed tea service, petit sandwiches and a cupcake dessert bar.  The Center for Financial Planning proudly sponsored the event.

Laurie serves as an active board member for Michigan Women’s Media, Inc. where she joins an equally dedicated group of women supporting this newly formed non-profit organization.  Their primary mission is to fund and maintain a robust internship program that will offer student journalists the opportunity to write about women’s interests.

Contact Laurie for additional information or volunteer opportunities.

Laurie Renchik Embarks on Leadership Oakland Cornerstone Program

Since 1990, the Leadership Oakland Cornerstone Program has brought together over 900 leaders from corporate, civic and non-profit organizations.

As one of class of 50 leaders for 2011-12, Laurie’s membership in this program provides exposure to an exclusive organization with a mission to develop leadership skills, expose individuals to key issues impacting the region, and enable participants to reach their full potential personally, professionally, and through public service to their communities.

Laurie recently attended the Kick-Off Retreat, a three-day, two-night retreat, where participants were provided an overview of the region and its challenges, insights into their own leadership style, and an opportunity to get to know their fellow Leadership Oakland classmates.  They will also set goals for their year in the Leadership Oakland Cornerstone program.

Laurie commented, "Over time community leaders armed with knowledge, collective creativity and innovation can change the course of our region to a stronger more vibrant future.”

By building a shared understanding and partnership, Cornerstone graduates develop purpose and commitment to the community for the organizations they represent and the communities they live and work in.

South Oakland Lunch Program – Another Rewarding Experience!

In support of the South Oakland Community Lunch Program, now in its 17th year, The Center volunteered to prepare and serve a warm meal for 60 to 80 eager patrons.  The Center team has served this Saturday free lunch program in downtown Royal Oak at least annually for over 10 years.

The following day Tim Wyman sent all concerned an informal but hearfelt message that helped sum up the experience:

“Nice job with the South Oakland Community Lunch Program once again! The cookers prepared a great meal….and the servers….well they were spectacular. Amanda is to be congratulated on her goulash serving skills – well done! Thanks to Jen for coordinating the effort – everything was in order and really helped for a successful event. I trust that everyone involved felt a great sense of satisfaction (not the word I am looking for – but hopefully you know what I mean). For many of Saturday’s guests it was truly a treat – and a good reminder as to how lucky we all are. For me personally, having my boys with me was so much more meaningful than just telling them how fortunate we are and that they should give back. Thanks to The Center for providing the opportunity.”

Please visit the Saturday Community Lunch Program Facebook Page to learn more about the program and volunteer opportunities.

Center Planners Present Educational Workshop for Gilda's Club in Royal Oak

Sandy Adams, CFP and Laurie Renchik, CFP recently presented a retirement and planning workshop for members and families of Gilda's Club Metro Detroit. Discussions included: HOW TO prioritize retirement objectives, create a withdrawal plan, and maximize your current financial resources.

Gilda's Club is a non-profit organization that provides tools and resources to help those whose lives have been impacted by cancer. They recently partnered with the Financial Planning Association of Michigan (FPA MI) to provide a series of financial education sessions over the coming months.