Feeling out of shape with your finances? Having difficulty maintaining your financial waistline? Well, now is the time to call Bob Whillans, Financial Fitness Coach.

For the past five years, Bob has been helping people in financial crisis through 1000 Islands Credit Counselling. He has always been community- minded and jumped at the chance to join an agency that makes a positive difference within the community.

At 1000 Islands Credit Counselling, Bob deals with more than just financial counselling (and counselling related to financial matters such as gambling and addictions). During the Christmas season, he prepares baskets for families in need so they have food and gifts for the holidays. Through the Winter Warmth program, he provides funds to keep critical utilities on during the winter months when families cannot afford to pay the bills. He also gives educational seminars throughout the year to teach youth how to effectively manage their money before problems arise.

The personal rewards in his job have been immeasurable. He sees many of his clients on a regular basis and as a result, he has formed lasting and meaningful relationships. There was one elderly couple whom he helped through their financial difficulties and he still counsels the woman outside of work to help her through the loss of her spouse. Bob deeply cares about the community and has its best interests at heart.

Community is also at the heart of United Way. Therefore, it’s not a surprise that United Way supports 1000 Islands Credit Counselling. “They are our major funder. Without United Way, we would not be able to go across Leeds & Grenville or have the number of staff that we do. Without United Way, we couldn’t function,” says Bob. Clearly, United Way is important to 1000 Islands Credit Counselling. And without you, United Way could not function. Clearly, you are important to United Way.