Specialty:

Socially, Responsible, Impact Investing

Professional Focus and Services:

As a Registered Investment Advisor with First Affirmative Financial Network, I specialize exclusively in Socially Responsible Investments (SRI) and helping clients make sense of their financial picture. I focus on working with individuals, organizations, and businesses in aligning their investment decisions with their values and mission statements.  My practice involves comprehensive financial planning including investment advice, education funding, and values-based retirement and legacy planning.  I am passionate about exploring money’s role and impact on happiness, social equality, and environmental sustainability.

How I Work with My Clients

The foundation of my practice and primary focus is strong and meaningful relationships based upon a clear understanding of my client’s identity, leading to regular, clear communication about their financial objectives.  Initially, I interview new clients to find out in depth information about their current financial status and interest in SRI.  After this introduction, I generate a personalized Investment Policy Statement to guide our future investment decisions.

As a fee-based planner, my compensation is derived as a percentage of the value of assets under management or as a dollar per hour charge for advice.  This means that my advice is based on what I believe to be the best course of action and is not biased by pressure to sell certain investments or earn commissions for sales.

I am committed to the work of using money to make a difference in the world.  I can help unify the power of your money with the global and social vision that you have. The foundation of your SRI portfolio is your values and ethics and is customized individually to you. Your experience and outlook will determine how we invest your money.

Professional Affiliations:

• Network Advisor with First Affirmative Financial Network
• Custodial Affiliation: Charles Schwab and Co., FOLIOfn, Huntington National Bank.
• Member: Co-op America
• Member: Midwest Renewable Energy Association – Board of Directors

Education and Experience:

• FINRA: Registered Representative Series 7
• FINRA: Uniform Securities Agent Series 66
• Licensed Agent (WI License): Life & Health Insurance
• FI360: Accredited Investment Fiduciary

My unique blend of experience both in and outside of the financial services gives me a wide-ranging perspective on the concerns and goals of my clients.  Prior to working exclusively with First Affirmative Financial Network, I worked for a non-profit Fortune 500 financial services company as a financial representative.  With client education as a cornerstone of my practice, I am a frequent presenter on financial matters, including a series of six-week courses on family finances. I am involved with SRI in the Rockies, the largest consortium of financial professionals working for the betterment of the environment, human rights, and corporate responsibility.

I majored in computer systems technology at Dunwoody University in Minneapolis, MN.  Additionally, I studied Biopsychology at University of Colorado at Boulder. This course of study has aided my understanding of the biological underpinnings of decision making in the brain, especially as it relates to finances.

Community Involvement:

As a member of the Board of Directors for the Midwest Renewable Energy Association (MREA), located in Custer, Wisconsin, I work to further the organization’s mission.  We promote renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable living through education and demonstration.  We also organize and host the annual MREA gathering, the largest and longest running event of its kind in the United States.

Personal Message:

My travels have taken me to England, Scotland, Ireland, and India. It was my time in India that colored my understanding of the impact of money on health and happiness.

Disclaimer:

David Behnke-Seper is an Investment Advisor Representative of First Affirmative Financial Network, LLC.
First Affirmative Financial Network is a Registered Investment Advisor (SEC File #801-56587).

The credential AIF® listed above bears trademarks.