In Episode #17 of NAPFA Nation, Mike Walther, Founder and President of Oak Wealth Advisors, talks with podcast host Marie Swift about working as a financial planning team focused on assisting families with differently abled loved ones. Walther's experiences with his autistic brother inspired the firm's focus on specialized financial planning. Oak Wealth Advisors is recognized for addressing special needs challenges with benefits like supplemental Social Security income and Medicaid, and puts an emphasis on education and advocacy.

The firm offers resources on ABLE accounts that promote independence for people with disabilities, collaborates with universities and nonprofits for awareness on special needs planning, and promotes inclusion by featuring artwork by individuals with different abilities. This artwork is incorporated into client communications, showcasing the firm's dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Oak Wealth Advisors engages with organizations offering employment opportunities to empower individuals with disabilities, demonstrating commitment to DEIB principles.

In a nutshell:

• The conversation highlighted societal shifts toward embracing neurodiversity and challenging stigmas related to different abilities

• Walther stressed the importance of recognizing diverse skill sets for innovation and inclusivity

• He advocates for individuals, encompassing a wide spectrum of abilities, participating in NAPFA initiatives like DEI committees to raise awareness on disability inclusion within professional circles, and empowering families to make informed decisions

Learn more about Oak Wealth Advisors at www.OakWealth.com.

Michael C. Walther II CPA/PFS, CFP®️, CFA®️

Oak Wealth Advisors LLC

Founder and President of Oak Wealth Advisors, LLC, Mike Walther, is known for special needs financial planning for families with loved ones with disabilities such as Autism, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, mental illness, Alzheimer’s, etc. Walther’s personal mission is to assist families in their efforts to provide their loved ones with special needs with the financial resources and other supports necessary to live their lives to their fullest potential.

He began his career as tax accountant at Arthur Andersen, co-founded and led Altair Advisers to manage $2.7 billion in client assets, and founded Oak Wealth Advisors in the midst of the 2007-2009 recession to serve families with members with special needs. Walther is the NAPFA 2023 Excellence in DEI Award winner; Investment News’ inaugural list of Hot 100 wealth professionals redefining success in the industry, and was the first Illinois financial planner admitted into the Academy of Special Needs Planners. Professional credentials include CPA/ Personal Financial Specialist, Certified Financial Planner™️ professional (CFP®️), and Chartered Financial Advisor (CFA®️).

Learn more at www.OakWealth.com