For Matthew Crocker, founder of Crocker Financial LLC in Kent, Ohio, the financial services profession is more than a career—it’s a calling.
Matthew’s journey began in college, when a risk management class first opened his eyes to the world of insurance. Years later, that spark turned into a profession, inspired in part by personal experience. “Having had to rely on the GoFundMe method for a family member, I wanted to make sure others didn’t need to feel the same shame I did,” he shared. “This industry gives me the opportunity to make a visible difference in people’s lives, and that’s what attracted me most.”
As a single father raising two children, Matthew knows firsthand the importance of planning for the future. He specializes in working with new homeowners and families, helping them understand their options and make well-informed financial decisions. “I enjoy continuously learning and meeting new people,” he said. “Every conversation I have can be the difference in someone’s future.”
When researching ways to grow professionally, Matthew discovered NAIFA. He joined to be part of a community dedicated to advocacy, education, and professional growth. “NAIFA is important to me because it represents the heart of our profession,” he explained. “It connects me to best practices, provides mentorship opportunities, and reinforces the ethical standards that guide every client conversation.”
Beyond his business, Matthew also serves his community as a volunteer poll worker and through grassroots advocacy. He values NAIFA’s political engagement, recognizing the importance of having a strong voice protecting both clients and professionals in an ever-changing industry.
For Matthew, Crocker Financial is as much a ministry as it is a business. “Our mission is to help families build wealth with purpose, protect what matters, and plan for generations—with faith at the center,” he said. “NAIFA has been a natural fit because it amplifies that mission and connects me with others who believe in doing what’s right, even when no one is looking.”
When asked why he would recommend this profession to others, Matthew is clear: “It’s more than a job—it’s a calling. Few professions allow you to combine financial expertise with the ability to impact families’ lives at such a personal level.”
And why NAIFA? “Because it’s the voice and backbone of our profession,” Matthew said. “It elevates the work we do and reminds us that our role is about building trust, protecting families, and shaping the future of financial services.”