Summer has arrived in Wisconsin - and as always, it will fly by! Whether you’re golfing, fishing, camping, or just enjoying time outdoors, I hope you're making the most of it. Like many of you, I take this time in the office to slow down a bit, catch up on projects, and reflect on the year ahead for NAIFA-WI
One reflection that comes to mind is the power of seemingly small actions. I’m reminded of The Butterfly Effect by Andy Andrews, which suggests even minor choices can have lasting impact. In 2013, I was in Washington, DC for navy reserve duty and was sitting in the Ronald Reagan International Airport awaiting my flight home when I saw a gentleman in a suit wearing a NAIFA pin. I engaged him in conversation and he excitedly told me about his experience at NAIFA's Congressional Conference (Day on the Hill). When he found out that I, too was a NAIFA member, he urged me to attend the following year. So, in 2014, I went. I was a little bit naïve about the event thinking that my presence in the congressional office would be transformational and that I was an agent of change. I learned however that your time with the legislator (or more often their staff) is only 15 minutes, you only get to say a couple of things, and you may have an opposing advocacy group sitting in the lobby when you leave. My first time I thought “what’s the use?” However, the more I attended Congressional Conference – the more I realized how important these advocacy efforts are. When I run into legislators in the community they remember that I've been to their office. I engage in small talk so that we build good rapport, a relationship that is more than being a conduit to a professional lobby organization. Legislators have come to respect what I have to say because they know me as a person. And there have also been some staffers with whom I’ve developed a professional relationship. One former staffer is still involved politically and may pursue higher aspirations in the future. We talk about personal finance. Advocacy works, and your presence does matter. If you've never participated in Congressional Conference in Washington DC, or Legislative Day in Madison —I strongly encourage you to make it a priority.
At this year’s 2025 event, I even saw President Trump’s motorcade at the Capitol—an unexpected moment that added to the experience! Just as exciting was seeing new NAIFA-WI members join us and dive into advocacy with enthusiasm.
Looking ahead, we’re seeking future leaders. If you're interested in stepping up for the 2026 NAIFA-WI Board, please reach out to us at info@naifawisconsin.org. Ben Borchardt, a great colleague and my fellow BNI member, is in line for 2026—and we’d love to have more members join us in shaping NAIFA-WI’s future.
Mark your calendars:
September 15–16: Join us at the Madison Park Hotel for in-person CE, remarks from NAIFA President Doug Massey, and a Madison Day on the Hill. Register here
September 30: NAIFA-WI Charity Golf Outing & Cornhole Tournament at Bull’s Eye Golf Club. Sign up here
Thank you for your continued membership and support. Wishing you a fun, relaxing, and meaningful summer.
Warmest regards,
Richard Balch, CFP, CLU, ChFC, RICP, LACP
NAIFA-Wisconsin President