John has been a leader in the financial capability field since 2008. John has helped over 8,000 clients address severe personal and financial challenges, giving them support and tested tools to achieve financial security and economic mobility. As a San Francisco native from a second-generation Mexican family, a former small business owner, financial advisor and a UC Berkeley graduate, John brings a unique and powerful combination of local, cultural, and financial expertise to his work with diverse clients and partners.

Blanca has over ten years of experience in financial counseling and education. As a HUD-certified counselor and an EMPATH economic mobility coach, she has assisted in rental aid, homebuying, foreclosure prevention, credit counseling, and overall financial wellness. Blanca is passionately committed to financial education and coaching, focusing on empowering underserved communities, families, and youth. She combines professional expertise with a sincere and personal commitment to those she assists, aiming to foster positive and enduring changes. 

Wasim grew up in London, where he inherited an entrepreneurial spirit from his parents. He attended a UK Immigration Law program sponsored by Cambridge University and gained valuable experience in finance as a banker in the US. Wasim's investment journey began at the remarkably young age of 14. His early exposure to the world of finance not only taught him valuable lessons in money management but also instilled a deep appreciation for the power of financial literacy. As a SF Financial Counselor, he is excited to empower others with his diverse background. 

Andrea was born and raised in South America and earned her degree from Santa María University in Caracas, Venezuela. She has over 10 years of experience in business and corporate law as a legal assistant and legal business adviser. Andrea moved to the Bay Area in 2016 and after assisting friends with financial advice for several years, she became a licensed financial counselor in 2022. She is passionate about combining her interests, career, and her background as a native-Spanish speaker to empower others in her community.

Torey is an NACCC-certified financial counselor at the Center, helping community members navigate budgeting, credit building, and long-term financial goals with compassion and practical tools. Raised in the Midwest, Torey brings a grounded, client-first approach shaped by years of housing policy work, political organizing, and campaigns across the Bay Area. They hold a master's degree in urban and public affairs from the University of San Francisco with a focus on affordable housing policy. 

Chris is a certified financial counselor and educator with a background in financial services, accounting, and non-profit work. He earned his BS from Golden Gate University with a degree in business. His dedication to help others find ways to improve their lives and interest in personal finance are expressed in his practice of financial counseling, education, and empowerment.  He thoroughly enjoys problem solving with clients and celebrating their wins, both big and small.

Howard is a senior Certified Financial Counselor with HUD counseling certification. He has worked for BALANCE for almost three decades, helped over 30,000 clients, and has worked in the financial services sector for over 32 years! He earned his BA from Central College in Pella, Iowa with degrees in International Management and Spanish. He is dedicated to serving the local community through financial empowerment and prides himself on being professional, helpful, and non-judgmental. His advice to his clients is to “not focus on your past failures but build on your current successes".

Julia is a University of Cal Berkeley alumni (GO BEARS!) and she resides in the San Francisco Bay Area. Julia is bi-lingual in English and Mandarin and draws on nonprofit experience mentoring and coaching youth.  She enjoys helping others manage their finances and has even extended her help to family and friends. We’re excited to have her share her passion for helping others with our clients through Financial Counseling.

Nalleli was born and raised in Colorado where she developed a love for nature and community advocacy from an early age. Seeking a diverse educational experience, she attended the University of San Francisco. She started her professional career working at a law firm and accounting firm. In her roles, she witnessed firsthand the transformative power of financial literacy in people's lives. As a result, she is committed to empowering others with the knowledge and skills needed to achieve financial well-being.

Carlos is a certified financial counselor and educator with a background in economics. A graduate of the University of California, Santa Cruz, he discovered his passion for personal finance during the pandemic and has since dedicated his career to supporting people in building stronger financial futures. Carlos believes that every client is an expert in their own financial journey. His role is to listen, provide tools and strategies, and advocate alongside clients so they can make informed decisions with confidence, always with a focus on empowerment and long-term success.