Get Involved

We invite you to help us increase financial literacy and build awareness of the Fiduciary Standard in our communities and workplaces in the following five ways:

A. Introduce Cygnet to groups we can help

As a nonprofit, we rely on the generosity of the public to deliver our programs to the community. Part of our revenue, however, is derived from financial programs we design and deliver for a fee to employer groups, unions, and associations. Please help us by introducing our fiduciary, educational philosophy to companies that understand the value of Financial Wellness. Such an introduction could lead to a revenue generating opportunity which in turn would allow us to bring more programs in the community.

For a better understanding of the value of Cygnet’s services and history click here.
To review our introductory brochure click here.

B. Become a trainer/presenter

Our Pharos Library Project is growing. In short order we will need more subject matter experts to present the content of our various seminars. To protect the integrity of the program and to enhance its value, we have established a set of criteria to maintain quality control over the content and the presenters. Below is a partial list of those criteria:

Sign Fiduciary pledge

Agree specifically to NOT solicit in class or afterwards

Support and enhance Critical Thinking in the presentation through emphasis on the following key aspects of Critical Thinking: Clarity, Accuracy, Consistency, Relevance, Sound Evidence, Good Reasons, Depth, Breath and Fairness

Explain relevance of their presentation to Personal Finance and quality of life

Embed and explain instances of Behavioral Finance issues in the subject being presented

Submit content of presentation for review

Submit all handouts for review

C. Become a volunteer

There is a need for individuals to assist in the development of a relationship with each library, school district, and senior center who could help Cygnet design a program specifically for their needs. The volunteer’s role would be to maintain good communications between Cygnet and the group to make sure Cygnet’s efforts align with the objectives of the group and help advance their goals.

With busy lives, it can be hard to find time to volunteer. However, the benefits of volunteering can be enormous. Volunteering offers vital help to people in need, worthwhile causes, and the community, but the benefits can be even greater for you, the volunteer. Helping us with our financial literacy efforts can help you to find new friends, connect with the community, learn new skills, and even advance your career.

Giving to others can also help protect your mental and physical health. It can reduce stress, combat depression, keep you mentally stimulated, and provide a sense of purpose. While it’s true that the more you volunteer, the more benefits you’ll experience, volunteering to help us arrange and deliver financial seminars and workshops doesn’t have to involve a long-term commitment or take a huge amount of time out of your busy day. We believe that by helping people learn to make good financial decisions, everyone wins – the person, their family and the community.

D. Join as friends of Cygnet

This is a way for you to receive emails to stay informed about matters important to financial planning decisions as well as announcements of programs you may be interested in attending. We respect your privacy and we do not share your information. If you’re interested in receiving our emails, please use the contact form on this site and we will add you to our list.

E. Your gift can help

Any amount would be helpful in funding the financial education programs we offer to communities through public libraries, senior centers, and schools.

For details about donating to Cygnet Institute, a Michigan 501(c)(3) click here.

Cygnet Institute has achieved ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems certification (QMS) from NSF International Strategic Registrations (NSF-ISR) for the design and provision of financial skills education. The standard, built on principles like strong customer focus and continual improvement, demonstrates Cygnet's commitment to delivering consistent, quality products and services.

Cygnet Institute has been designated by CEFEX, the Centre for Fiduciary Excellence as a nonprofit Investment Support Services (ISS) provider for plan sponsors and plan participants to educate adults in economic matters, advance their financial literacy and enhance their ability to make good financial decisions in self-directed retirement plans and non-retirement accounts. For more information click the seal or go to www.CEFEX.org.