Despite talk of economic recovery, New York City’s low-income families continue to struggle against tough obstacles to economic stability particularly in areas where lack of conventional banking services encourages use of sub-prime lenders, check-cashing systems, and other high-risk practices. In response, the Community Service Society’s (CSS) Retired and Senior Volunteer Program provides financial coaching to hundreds of low-income New Yorkers through our Financial Coaching Corps (FCC). Highly trained FCC volunteer coaches bring their vast experience and passionate commitment to bear in helping economically struggling New Yorkers take control of their finances and their futures.

Anne Davis is among CSS’s most outstanding financial coaches. A retired attorney with the CBS Corporation, Anne had become active in the disability advocacy community following her diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. As a volunteer at the Multiple Sclerosis Society, Anne saw many clients burdened by credit and debt problems. She learned of CSS’s Financial Coaching Corps and felt it could help her clients. Anne completed the FCC training program six years ago, and has volunteered with CSS ever since helping countless numbers of clients move forward with their lives. Anne helps people improve their credit, reduce debt, establish savings accounts, and develop the budgeting skills which are critical to long-term economic stability. Says Anne, “The program was designed to help people learn how to save, and to have a goal. We start off by listening to everyone, to find out what their most pressing issue is and work from there.” Her training, experience, and sensitivity help even the most overwhelmed clients take the necessary steps to get back on their feet. Anne’s efforts run the gamut from helping clients arrange workable payment schedules or deferments with creditors; to challenging unfair or erroneous billing practices, and much more. “I don't want people to feel alone,” she says. “Almost all my clients come in because of credit card and other debt that has become unmanageable, and because they are strapped for cash. People just have huge burdens.” Describing why her experience as a coach is so rewarding, Anne says: “By and large, clients are motivated, disciplined, and seeking direction and guidance. Even in this harsh economy, many people are really working hard at getting themselves into a better place. Over the years, I have met such remarkable people.”

During her tenure with FCC, Anne has experienced several serious health issues requiring long periods of recuperation. She is currently fighting cancer but this does not stop her from volunteering. “I had a ruptured disk, then shingles, and now I have chemotherapy every other week for the rest of my life. But I keep coming in!” Asked what keeps her motivated, she says, “People say if you knew your life was limited what would you do? I am doing just what I want to do.”

Anne Davis’s generosity, skills, and great tenacity have helped define the positive qualities of effective coaching. She is an exemplary financial coach doing her part to fight poverty in New York City.