Today we’d like to introduce you to Quentara Costa.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Quentara. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
For years, I was my father’s primary caregiver, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s at age 70 and living halfway across the country. Despite my background in wealth management, managing his affairs and diagnosis was trial by fire. If that wasn’t enough, my own life was on fast forward. I sat for the CFP® exam, switched jobs, bought a house, got married, and started a family.
In the midst of all this, clients began confiding their own struggles of managing the affairs of aging parents. They too found themselves suddenly responsible for supporting parents financially, emotionally, and sometimes physically. Their questions ranged from wanting financial care plans created for their parents to simply understanding how the role impacted their own finances.
Once I became aware of “The Sandwich Generation” dynamic and experienced their needs first hand, I realized there was an opportunity to create a business dedicated to helping them navigate their role and financial goals. Powwow, named for my strong belief in communication, was born!
I also created the Merrimack Valley Senior and Caregiver Facebook Group to help connect local families to elder care resources. (https://www.facebook.com/groups/MVSeniorsGroup/)
Has it been a smooth road?
My biggest challenge has been to overcome the negative stigma of the financial industry. Clients are expecting I’ll require them to roll over accounts for investment, purchase insurance or annuities, or that I’m going to make a commission on a recommendation.
As a fiduciary, my approach is to review what’s on the table so that I can explain and illustrate their options. For payment, I charge a project, hourly or membership fee which is determined during our initial consultation.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Powwow, LLC – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Our passion is helping the “Sandwich Generation.” This generation has trouble attaining personal goals while also supporting kids and aging parents. Even if money is on the table, time and confidence are often lacking. Powwow addresses all the “what-ifs” and uncertainties through illustration and conversation so the client can plainly see their best direction.
Since time is often our client’s most valuable asset, we offer a customized planning portal. Through the portal we can collaborate, connect accounts, and securely share information, making it possible to hold all meetings virtually. This has been a huge plus for homebound seniors and busy families.
We’ve been able to help families create their first budget, seniors feel financially confident in choosing a retirement community, and show a burnt out business owner how they can retire early. From the basics to the complex, it’s rewarding to see the relief on a client’s face.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
The Merrimack Valley, in particular, has a fantastic elder care program. They’ve been able to raise money to create printed handbooks, known as “The Green Book,” that explain their 70+ programs and this year printed a separate manual for Veterans benefits. These are unparalleled resources for seniors and their families. Massachusetts, in general, has made great strides to protect seniors from financial abuse and fund programs to allow seniors to stay home longer and safer.
Massachusetts has also funded and supported Budget Buddies, a charitable organization that empowers women to take control of their finances through weekly education. The programs are mainly run through shelters, Habitat for Humanity, and other city programs. I’ve enjoyed being both a coach and presenter and hope to help create new materials in the future.
Pricing:
- $1,500+ for flat projects
Contact Info:
- Address: 45 Windkist Farm Rd North Andover, MA 01845
- Website: www.powwowllc.com
- Phone: 978-685-PLAN (7526)
- Email: quentaracosta@powwowllc.com
- Instagram: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCliK8sx7qAbDaErpv5dNy2A/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PowwowLLC/
- Other: https://www.linkedin.com/in/quentara/
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