As 2024 comes to a close, we at ARK Financial Wellness find ourselves reflecting on what has been a truly eventful and fulfilling year. It’s been a journey filled with professional accomplishments, personal growth, and memorable moments—and none of it would have been possible without YOU. Your trust, partnership, and support are the foundation of everything we do, and for that, we are profoundly thankful.

As we prepare to welcome 2025, we wanted to take a moment to celebrate some of the highlights from this incredible year that we are especially proud of.

Celebrating ARK’s 3rd Birthday

This year marked ARK Financial Wellness’s third birthday! It’s humbling to reflect on how far we’ve come in such a short time, and we’re incredibly proud of the impact we’ve made in helping our clients achieve their financial and personal goals. Whether it was setting goals, developing personalized strategies, or simply helping to provide peace of mind, every success story and new client coaching session reaffirmed our mission to help others achieve their most fulfilling return on life. Watching clients take control of their financial journeys is and has always been one of the greatest joys of our work.

Industry Conferences and Continuous Learning

In April, we attended our annual industry conference at Disney World, themed “Unleash Your Superpower.” The event celebrated the inner strength that drives us all, drawing inspiration from Marvel superheroes like Iron Man, Captain America, and Captain Marvel. From strategic insights to teamwork lessons, the conference left us energized, motivated, and ready to take ARK to new heights. At the conference, we were also thrilled to receive the “Rising Star” award for our year-over-year increased production!

Professional Awards and Recognition

In August, ARK Financial Wellness was named the 2024 A-List Winner in the category of Financial Advisor by St. Louis Magazine’s A-List Choice Awards! This prestigious list is a tribute to the region’s best, as voted by the readers, and we are incredibly proud to be recognized alongside other outstanding businesses in the St. Louis community.

Additionally, this year, Lisa Avenevoli, Owner and Lead Advisor of ARK Financial Wellness, was honored with the Five Star Best in Client Satisfaction Wealth Manager award for the 10th consecutive year! Her commitment to serving clients with integrity, expertise, and genuine care continues to set her apart in the industry.

Cherishing Family Milestones

Beyond the professional milestones, 2024 was a year of creating memories with our families. From summer vacations filled with sunshine and laughter to celebrating anniversaries—Lisa and Craig marked 19 years of marriage, while Isabel and Adam celebrated 18—we’re reminded of the importance of balance and prioritizing what matters most.

Parenting also kept the ARK team on our toes, as Lisa’s kids are now 14, 15, and 10, while Isabel juggles life with her 16, 13, 10, and 6-year-old. These personal moments remind us that life’s richness comes from the connections we foster with those we love.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we close the chapter on this amazing year, we are filled with gratitude for the incredible journey it has been. Your trust and partnership inspire us to keep growing and striving for excellence every day.

From all of us at ARK Financial Wellness, thank you for being part of our story. Here’s to an even brighter 2025!

The holiday season is an opportunity to reflect on what we’re grateful for, and many of us celebrate that gratitude by giving back. Beyond traditional presents and holiday gestures, financial gifting can be a meaningful and impactful way to support loved ones or causes that resonate with our values. This approach not only supports your personal goals of giving back, but it also offers financial benefits, helping you maximize the positive impact of your wealth.

Here’s how you can create tax-efficient financial gifts, support future financial security, and make the most of your holiday giving through charitable contributions.

Tax-Efficiency in Charitable Giving

One of the benefits of financial gifting is the potential for tax savings, especially when gifts are made strategically. By planning your charitable donations around tax considerations, you can ensure that your contributions go further while reducing your own tax liabilities. All donations must be made by 11:59 PM on December 31st to qualify for a 2024 tax deduction.

If you’re giving to a specific charity, check to see that it qualifies as a tax-exempt organization by using the IRS Exempt Organizations Search. Only tax-exempt charities qualify for deductible donations, so it’s essential to confirm eligibility before it comes time to claim your donations when filing your taxes.

Bunching Charitable Contributions

An increasingly popular approach for charitable donors is “bunching” their contributions. Bunching involves combining two or more years’ worth of charitable donations into a single tax year. This approach is particularly beneficial for those nearing the standard deduction threshold. By concentrating donations, you may qualify for a larger itemized deduction, offering a tax advantage that wouldn’t be available with smaller, annual donations. It’s a strategic approach that can make a meaningful difference both for you and the causes you support.

Donor-Advised Funds

For those interested in a structured but flexible way to give, donor-advised funds (DAFs) offer a powerful solution. Contributions to DAFs are tax-deductible in the year they are made, yet they allow for flexibility in how and when funds are distributed to charities. This means that, while your contribution is no longer technically yours, you retain advisory privileges and the ability to recommend how the funds are distributed.

Once in the fund, the contributions grow tax-free, meaning that more money is available for charitable giving over time. DAFs can be a long-term charitable vehicle, offering a way to plan and manage your philanthropy well beyond the current holiday season.

Qualified Charitable Distributions

For those currently age 73 years old and up, who are required to take Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from their IRAs, a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) is an ideal tool to support charitable organizations while addressing tax responsibilities.

The benefit of a QCD is that it allows you to fulfill part or all of your RMD requirements while excluding the distribution amount from your taxable income. Not only can this reduce your overall tax liability, but it also offers an impactful way to support charities without affecting your cash flow.

Notably, once you reach the age of 70.5, you can transfer funds directly from your IRA to a qualified charity even if your required minimum distribution age is after age 70.5.

However, not all charities qualify for QCDs, so be sure to check with a tax advisor to ensure your chosen charity is eligible to receive these contributions.

ARK Financial Wellness: Your Partner in Giving Back

We’re here to help make your holiday giving meaningful, informed, and impactful. Whether you’re interested in maximizing tax benefits, exploring donor-advised funds, or utilizing QCDs, we can guide you through the options. This holiday season, give thanks by giving back—and let us help you create a gifting strategy that reflects your values and meets your financial goals.

“Give a woman a dollar, and she can put it to good use. Teach her about how money really works, and she can change the world.” – Linda Davis Taylor

Financial literacy is referred to as the ability to grasp and effectively apply various financial skills to one’s life. From budgeting to debt management to retirement planning; financial literacy is the cornerstone of a secure and financially independent life; especially for women.

Historically, women have faced unique challenges in the financial realm, from wage gaps to longer life expectancies requiring more substantial retirement savings. Understanding financial concepts empowers women to make informed decisions.

The Importance of Financial Literacy

Financial literacy encompasses more than just knowing how to manage a household budget. It extends to comprehending complex financial concepts like debt management, loan applications, retirement planning, and investment strategies. Essentially, it’s about gaining the knowledge needed to make informed financial decisions that can shape a stable and prosperous future.

For many women, becoming financially literate means breaking through barriers that have historically limited their access to financial knowledge. This can include education and overcoming the intimidating jargon of the financial industry. Financial terms and processes can be confusing and intimidating, leading many to shy away from seeking the knowledge they need. Additionally, societal norms and biases may discourage women from seeking financial knowledge or taking control of their finances. By demystifying and normalizing these concepts, financial literacy empowers women to take control of their lives.

Building Confidence in Financial Decision-Making

Understanding the intricacies of financial planning can often feel overwhelming. That is why at ARK Financial Wellness, we are dedicated to providing educational opportunities that enhance your financial literacy. We are committed to guiding you through every step of the process. Whether through one-on-one meetings, group settings, or ongoing communication, we strive to make financial education accessible and comprehensible.

We also offer a variety of resources designed to support your financial education journey through our Wellness Center. These resources include downloadable checklists, financial calculators, and practical tips are carefully curated and selected to help you manage your finances effectively.

Additionally, we take pride in offering a judgment-free zone where complicated financial terms are explained in relatable and understandable ways. With over 40 years of combined experience, our team is dedicated to transforming complex financial concepts into clear, actionable insights. Our goal is to alleviate anxiety and stress by providing comfort and ease, ensuring that you feel empowered to make informed financial choices.

Financial Literacy and Empowerment

Education and knowledge are powerful tools that drive personal and professional success. When women understand their finances, they make better decisions—whether managing day-to-day expenses, planning for long-term goals, or navigating complex financial situations. Financial literacy is more than a skill; it is a transformative power that enables women to achieve personal and professional milestones, such as buying a home, starting a business, or securing a comfortable retirement.

The benefits extend beyond the financial realm. Financial literacy fosters a sense of control and security, reducing financial stress and enhancing overall well-being. It equips women with the confidence and independence needed to navigate life’s challenges and seize opportunities. By embracing financial literacy, women can take charge of their financial futures, helping to ensure stability and prosperity for themselves and their families.

As it is graduation season, the excitement of higher education fills the air for millions of students and their families. However, before the selection of fall classes, back-to-school shopping, and dorm decorating comes a vital and significant aspect: financial planning and preparedness. The cost of college encompasses more than just tuition, extending to other expenses such as room, board, food, personal necessities, and travel, including gas and airplane fares. Understanding the basics of college savings plans and exploring resources for college readiness can significantly alleviate the financial burden and ensure a smoother transition into this next chapter of life.

Understanding the Basics: 529 Plans

529 plans are a specialized type of investment account that can be used to pay for a wide range of education expenses, including tax-deferred and tax-free withdrawals for qualified education expenses. These plans are sponsored by states, state agencies, or educational institutions and come in two main types: prepaid tuition plans and education savings plans.

● Prepaid tuition plans allow you to prepay for tuition at participating colleges and universities at today’s prices, thereby providing a hedge against future tuition increases. These plans are available even for a student who might not be attending the school for a few years, and while primarily designed for in-state public colleges, some prepaid tuition plans also offer flexibility for out-of-state and private institutions.

● Education savings plans are similar to Roth IRAs or Roth 401(k)s, allowing you to invest after-tax contributions into mutual funds or similar investment accounts that are reserved for a student’s higher education expenses. These funds offer more flexibility with the ability to pay for qualified expenses for colleges and universities (including tuition, books, room and board), as well as private, public or religious elementary or secondary tuition expenses for K-12 students.

It’s important to note that 529 plans can be opened for family members, including children, grandchildren, or other relatives, and can be transferred to different beneficiaries if needed. While every state offers at least one 529 plan option, you’re not limited to investing in your state’s plan, although doing so may offer additional tax incentives.

Financial Considerations for College Students

Beyond college savings plans, there are several financial considerations that both students and their families should keep in mind to navigate the cost of higher education effectively. Here are some practical tips and considerations:

1. Create a Budget: Encourage your student to create a comprehensive budget outlining all expenses, from tuition and books to housing and miscellaneous costs. Be sure to adjust each year as necessary.

2. Education on Responsible Borrowing: Educate your student about the implications of student loans and the importance of borrowing responsibly. Discuss the long-term impact of student loan debt on their financial goals post-graduation, emphasizing the importance of minimizing debt whenever possible.

3. Exploring Financial Aid: Securing financial aid is an ongoing process. Revisit your student’s financial assistance package annually, exploring scholarships, grants, and student loans. Each year revisit and complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to maintain eligibility for aid.

4. Consider Part-time Work: Encourage your students to consider part-time work or internships to supplement their income and gain valuable work experience while in college. Balancing academics with work can foster financial independence and professional development.

5. Take Advantage of Student Discounts and Resources: Many companies and businesses offer discounts for students, such as Apple, Verizon, and Amazon Prime. Taking advantage of these resources can be a great way to maximize savings while in school.

Preparing for college is a big deal that requires careful financial planning and important, ongoing decision making. By understanding the basics of college savings plans and exploring available resources, students and their families can embark on the journey of higher education with confidence and financial stability. This next chapter of a student’s life is an exciting one, and preparation is the key to unlocking all the opportunities that higher education brings.

College Savings Resources:

● College Aid Pro

○ A great free resource for students and parents that demystifies financial aid and helps find schools that will give them the most savings

● College Board

○ One of the best when it comes to estimating future college costs. Has one of the largest reference guides to find college net price calculators, calculators mandated by the department of education to help families estimate what the price of college might be after financial aid estimates.

● Federal Student Aid

○ The website of the Federal Student Aid, a part of the U.S. Department of Education, the largest provider of student financial aid in the nation.

● College Student Discounts

○ A comprehensive list of the best deals and where to find them

As the third week of February celebrates National Entrepreneurship Week, it seemed fitting to shine a spotlight on our journey here at ARK Financial Wellness and the transformative impact we seek to have on the lives of our clients.

About ARK Financial Wellness

We are women financial advisors here to help career-driven women navigate the complexities of wealth management while pursuing their personal and professional dreams. We understand that one’s income and savings must be able to support their objectives and long-term goals. However, we also understand being happy and successful is not just about accumulating wealth; it is also about creating a life rich with both purpose and experiences. It is about being able to have enough health, time, and financial confidence to relish in family time, start that dream business, retire early, and so much more. One can have all the money in the world, but with no purpose – there is no real return on life.

Our Mission

Our mission at ARK Financial Wellness remains clear: To partner with and empower individuals, particularly career-driven women and couples, to achieve financial independence and fulfillment. Our approach goes beyond traditional financial planning, with a big focus on attaining and maintaining financial, personal, and professional wellness.

Lisa Avenevoli, CFP®, CMFC, reveals, “I have the honor and privilege to do what I do today and work with our clients here at ARK on a deep level. I get to help people understand what is truly important to them, and understand what makes their life rich so that we can create a plan, mold their financial house, and help them make decisions around what is important to them.” By employing highly personalized planning strategies that embrace our core values of integrity, value-centric, and accountability, we help you to achieve your most fulfilling return on life.

Our Process

The ARK Process is characterized by organization, accountability, objectivity, proactivity, communication, and education:

Organization – We equip you with the necessary tools to help get your financial house in order. Whether you are unsure about your financial standing, seeking to safeguard what you have, or aim to pursue philanthropic goals while optimizing tax strategies and estate planning, we provide the resources necessary to achieve your objectives.

Accountability – We help you uphold your financial commitments by working with you to prioritize goals and regularly review your progress.

Objectivity – We work with you to alleviate emotionally driven decisions by offering timely support at your key moments, and providing the necessary research to ensure you possess all the information needed to make informed decisions.

Proactivity – We empower you to lead a proactive life, both financially and personally, rather than reacting to circumstances. By continually assessing potential life transitions, both expected and unexpected, we help you devise action plans to navigate them successfully.

Communication – We maintain open lines of communication to keep you on course toward achieving and exceeding your goals.

Education – We firmly believe that knowledge is power, serving as your tool for success. Whether through personalized one-on-one sessions, group workshops, or ongoing correspondence via mail or email, we are committed to providing educational opportunities at every turn. The more informed you are, particularly concerning financial matters, the more confident you’ll be in your decision-making process.

What We Do at ARK Financial Wellness

At the heart of ARK Financial Wellness is our dedication to serving career-driven executive women in their 40’s and 50’s who are balancing ALL THE THINGS. For these busy female leaders, this means managing their work team and their home team, raising children, running a household, coordinating schedules and pickups, and caring for aging parents. We recognize the unique challenges faced when balancing career aspirations with financial, family and personal well-being. We understand firsthand the demands of all of this as we work to help more women and their families here at ARK Financial Wellness!

That is why we aim to become a trusted partner for women seeking to take control of their financial futures while pursuing their life dreams. We want to create an environment where individuals can enjoy the present while also preparing for the future. This involves maximizing earnings, ensuring financial security, and adopting a more deliberate approach to saving. We strive to alleviate the burden associated with wealth management, encompassing all aspects of financial well-being from saving for children, creating the ideal retirement, to planning for the unexpected; all with the goal of diminishing stress and fostering peace of mind.

As we commemorate National Entrepreneurship Week, let us celebrate the achievements of other trailblazers, who continue to redefine success and inspire the next generation of female entrepreneurs.