Who We Are

Woody Derricks, CFP®, ADPA® – Bio

Career

Starting my career as a Financial Advisor in 1998 has given me a broad perspective about wealth management. I have seen some of the best and worst markets in our history. That experience allows me to approach my clients with the knowledge of how the markets fit into their greater financial picture.

The market’s ups and downs aren’t just about dollars and cents; clients’ emotions ride the same waves as the markets.  Of course, retirement and sudden life changes can be stressful moments as well.  As a result, a large part of my role is helping clients on an emotional level as we discuss their finances.

My perspective has also been broadened by serving as an advisor, a mentor, and as a manager throughout my career. I am a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional and have the Accredited Domestic Partnership Advisor™ designation.  I also hold a certificate in the Mastery of Philanthropic Solutions in Financial Planning from the Financial Planning Association/American Heart Association.

Writing and Speaking

I have been writing articles on financial planning for several regional newspapers since 2001. I have also been a guest speaker on LGBT financial issues at the national conference for the American Psychological Association and have served on panels for the University of Maryland and the Capital Area Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, I have conducted financial planning workshops at AOL, AT&T, Booz Allen Hamilton, Fannie Mae, IBM, Lockheed Martin, and Verizon, as well as various federal agencies and advocacy groups.

Non-profit

I am currently or have been a member of the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (Bronze Pioneer), a Partners member of HRC, FreeState Justice board member, Equality Maryland Foundation Board of Directors, board member for the Maryland Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, the EPA’s Green Power Partnership, the first member of Maryland’s Green Registry, Businesses for the Bay, Pride Planners, the Canton Community Association, treasurer for the Canton Dog Park, and the founder/president of Paws for a Cause, Inc.

Personal

My wife, Heidi and I enjoy camping, hiking, and traveling with our daughter, Elise, and our dogs, Fenway & Roxy.  Fun fact: as the owner of a modest-sized property in Great Britain, Woody has the title of Lord.

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and federally registered CFP (with flame design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.