Certified Financial Services (CFS), a proud NAIFA Financial Security Champion, is dedicated to helping individuals, families, and small business owners pursue lasting financial security. While the world is constantly changing, CFS believes in the lasting power of relationships and community. The firm understands that each person they serve has goals—some financial, others personal—but at the heart of every plan is a focus on the people who matter most. That same people-first mindset is what fuels the firm’s long-standing commitment to giving back.

Over the past 39 years, CFS has raised more than $2.1 million for Make-A-Wish New Jersey through its signature annual event, “CFS Tee Off for the Kids.”

The event was started in 1986 by Bill Gatherall, who laid the foundation for what has become the longest-running Make-A-Wish golf outing in New Jersey. When Bill passed the torch to General Agent Craig Feinberg over a decade ago, few imagined how much the event would continue to grow. Today, it’s more than just a golf outing—it's a full-day celebration of generosity and community.

Held at Knickerbocker Country Club on the first Monday in August, the event now includes tennis and family-friendly attractions including food trucks and live raffles. The participation has expanded to 120 golfers and 16 tennis players, with volunteers from across the company and community stepping up to help.

This year, CFS interns and summer associates raised nearly $20,000 themselves—an example of how the event also nurtures leadership and service in the next generation. Over 100 raffle items were donated, and hundreds of swag bags were assembled with help from the team. As one attendee described, “It’s the highlight of our year.”

Each event features stories from wish recipients and their families, reinforcing the impact of the fundraising. As one Make-A-Wish representative shared during a past event, hearing from the children who benefited reminds everyone what it’s all for: the kids.

As a NAIFA Financial Security Champion, Certified Financial Services exemplifies the values of service, leadership, and community involvement. Programs like these bring people together and create a culture of purpose and connection—both within the firm and throughout the profession.

With its 40th anniversary on the horizon in 2026, CFS is already preparing to make next year’s event bigger and more impactful. “We just keep trying to outdo ourselves,” said Marisa Mantz, who oversees the planning. “We do it because we know it changes lives.”

Because as Bill always said: “It’s for the kids.”

Securities products & services offered through Park Avenue Securities, LLC (PAS), member FINRA, SIPC. Certified Financial Services, LLC is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS. Certified Financial Services, LLC is an agency of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America, New York, NY.

The Guardian Network® is a network of preferred providers authorized to offer products of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America (Guardian), New York, NY and its subsidiaries. Guardian or any of its subsidiaries are not affiliated Make-A-Wish. CFS Make-A-Wish is a tax-exempt 501(c)3 charitable organization, #473547599. Sponsor checks must be made payable to the CFS Make-A-Wish Charitable organization and a certain portion is tax-deductible. Registration is no confirmed until payment is received . National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors is endorsed by but not affiliated with Guardian or its subsidiaries. Members must pay an annual fee. This association is unaffiliated with my advisory business. 8279520.1  exp 8.2027