When it comes to making a lasting impact through financial literacy, the power of teamwork can make all the difference.
For volunteers Linda Pohorelic CPA, CA; Trudy Brodner CPA, CMA; and Laverne Mok CPA, CMA (pictured clockwise starting at top left) what started as an individual curiosity quickly evolved into a decade-long journey marked by collaboration, community impact, and a friendship rooted in a shared purpose. Their story is one of encouragement, adaptability, and the incredible things that happen when professionals unite to educate and give back to the community.
Why did you join Financial Literacy?
LP: At the time that the Financial Literacy program was introduced, I had been working with Laverne for several years, and we had become friends. We were both interested when the program was announced. Laverne asked if I would attend an information session with her. I felt that it was an innovative program and thought that I might be able to contribute to making a difference.
LM: I was interested in Financial Literacy because there are so few initiatives focused on this topic, especially for children. At first, I was intimidated by the idea of delivering a solo presentation. However, once I learned that collaboration was possible, I felt more confident and empowered to facilitate the sessions.
Linda and I met Trudy through the program and discovered that we all lived in the same neighborhood. Trudy was an area manager for the Calgary region and she helped me find 10 volunteers for the first session that I organized. We stayed in touch since then and continued to volunteer together.
TB: I used to volunteer with Junior Achievement so when CPA came up with their fin lit program it was an easy choice to join in. I started with JA as I felt it was a great way to start teaching children about the financial world we live in. Throughout my career I found that many adults didn’t understand some of the basics of finance, so starting to teach school age children just made a lot of sense to me.
Any favorite sessions or memorable groups?
LP: I have presented sessions for both adults and youth—the youth sessions are the ones I enjoy the most. They are fun and engaging, and the kids can ask some challenging questions.
LM: Definitely facilitating sessions for elementary school children. They are full of energy and curiosity, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see their faces light up when they discover something new. I also enjoy reading participants’ feedback about what they’ve learned—it’s a meaningful reminder that I have increased their financial knowledge.
TB: Like Linda, I have presented sessions to both adults and children. It’s fun to watch the kids doing the workshops and to see those “lightbulb” moments.
What’s the most challenging part of the role – and how do you overcome it?
LP: For me, the hardest part is just getting up in front of an audience. Getting comfortable with the subject matter helps. The resources provided by the Financial Literacy program are carefully thought out—reviewing them a few times gives me confidence that the sessions will go well. But I have found that the most helpful thing was to have a co-presenter (or two—thank you, Laverne and Trudy!) that I enjoy working with. They have their own unique insights to share, can help ensure that I haven’t missed a relevant point, and are encouraging and supportive before, during and after the presentations.
LM: I agree with Linda that the hardest part is presenting in front of an audience. I have overcome this by knowing I have great partners to rely on and thoroughly understanding the material and making it relevant to the audience. In the past, we have adapted parts of our presentation by updating the information, tailoring it to participants, transitioning the presentation from in-person to an online format, or adjusting the delivery style—for example, recognizing that younger children may need breaks.
To reinforce what Linda said, working with a partner has been incredibly valuable. It allows us to rely on each other, share different perspectives, and develop new ideas together.
TB: As the others said, working with partners is not only fun but provides support and insight. I found out I actually like to teach, especially something that is this important as financial literacy.
In your opinion, what elements really add value to a session?
LP: I love it when the attendees begin to share their thoughts and experiences. That’s when it starts feeling less like a presentation and more like a conversation. Having the audience feel more involved means they are more likely to retain some of the learnings.
LM: I also find it valuable when we can incorporate personal experiences into the topic. Stories shared by the presenter or audience make the learning points more relatable and impactful.
TB: Personal stories do add to the presentations and, especially for adults, make them feel more confident that we are knowledgeable and can help understand the basics of financial literacy. In addition, again more for adults or older students, I ask what they want to get out of the session and then I make sure their questions are answered. The workshops work well with students, while the handouts are better for adults as they can follow along and make their own notes.
How has volunteering with Financial Literacy changed you personally?
LM: Over time, I became more comfortable with presenting. I get as much out of this as the participants because I find that there are always concepts that I may not know, like how expensive owning a horse would be (Pet Shop session for elementary kids). {laughs}
LP: I concur.
TB: I am passionate about teaching financial literacy and the more I do it, the more passionate I become.
Can you describe a moment when you felt your work really made a difference?
LP: Chatting with participants/hosts or reading through the evaluation forms after a session provides important feedback for me. That’s when I realize people appreciate our efforts and that the program is providing a valuable service. But when you happen to run into someone weeks or months later and they tell you that they’ve followed up on a suggestion that was made: that’s when it really hits home that you’ve made an impact.
LM: Agree with Linda.
TB: Yes, Linda summed it up perfectly!
How do you stay motivated and passionate about giving your time?
LP: I think about the people: the people that need help in improving their financial literacy skills and the people that I’ve worked with to provide that learning.
LM: Agree. This realization motivates me to continue on this journey and seek out opportunities to engage with groups who could benefit from such valuable programs.
TB: There is a real need for financial literacy at all ages, so that keeps me going. I would love to see a full-time fin lit course introduced into schools. We live in a financial world and yet we teach so little of it, so I am so glad of this program.
What are the tips, tricks or strategies you would like to share to a new or aspiring Alberta CPAs who might be interested in volunteering for Financial Literacy sessions?
LP: Just do it. It was easier than I thought—there are so many resources available to help you find a session to facilitate. The materials for each session are thoroughly reviewed and the lessons are clearly outlined.
LM: Agree! You can ease into it by teaming up with an experience facilitator. Use your own words to explain concepts. Keep it interactive. Smile and have fun!
TB: Yes, the materials from CPA have everything you need and finding a mentor to shadow or show you how it’s done really helps if you’re unsure about presenting. Like Laverne said, remember to have fun, too; it helps you and helps the audience.
Do you have any future goals related to volunteering or community work?
LP: In addition to Financial Literacy, I currently volunteer on some not-for-profit boards. I will continue to do so as long as I feel I am adding value.
LM: I will continue to volunteer in programs where I can share my experiences and knowledge. As a CPA, I believe the profession equips us with valuable skills that can be applied both professionally and in volunteer work. I am always grateful for the opportunity to make a difference. In this case, the end-of-session evaluation, in particular, offers immediate feedback, and knowing that even if the audience takes away a few key concepts, my work has been worthwhile [is motivating]. I’m proud that the CPA profession supports such an important program. It is beneficial to the profession and to the community.
TB: I recently moved into a plus-55 condo and will look for opportunities here for seniors as well as continue to volunteer in places like the Rotary Club and other areas.
After years of co-facilitating sessions, the trio continues to champion financial literacy with the same enthusiasm and sense of purpose that brought them together in the first place. Their bond, built through shared experience and a common goal, serves as an ongoing source of inspiration for others to get involved and contribute to meaningful community impact.
Help us promote Financial Literacy
Do you have a child in school? A friend or relative who is a teacher or school administrator? Although CPA Canada has an extensive email campaign to Alberta schools, a personal connection adds value. By spreading the word, you can help bring Financial Literacy sessions to more classrooms—with your support, we can help young people take control of their finances and plan for a better future.
