Derek Dutka, B.Ed., CFP®

Growing up on a farm in a remote area of northern BC was probably the best education I could get for this business and for life in general. Of course, it was only after I left the farm that I realized the profound richness of that simple, peaceful experience. Let me share the farm wisdom that I live by which forms the guiding principles for my business, and allows me to help you reach for your dreams.

Farming taught me that it takes time for things to grow to maturity, that you shouldn't rely on a single crop, that you need to plan ahead, that regular maintenance prevents a lot of stress, that we need both sunshine and rain, that an early frost or a drought are just temporary setbacks that are to be expected from time to time and that fancy cars are a lot of fun but aren't much help with the harvest!

I've built my practice by attracting employees and clients that share our basic belief that you should love people and use money, not the other way around. We are always looking for ways of simplifying your life and allowing you to focus on what's most important to you. Our clients come from all walks of life. What they have in common is a zest for life, a generous spirit, a value-based approach to life and a long-term outlook (three generations).

Our strength as a team comes from a heart of giving. We give you the freedom to dream big dreams, the wisdom to put a realistic plan in place and the encouragement to carry on through the rainy days in life. You will know how you are doing because we have systems set up to measure your progress every step of the way. We (you, my staff and I) are known for giving generously of our time and finances in order to make our communities a better place to live.

I also spent three years as owner/operator of a small trucking firm and three years teaching business courses in high school before entering the financial planning business in 1986. Now I'm teaching people how to tend to their financial farms. With my 35+ years of experience, I have seen the good, the bad, and the ugly, especially in estate planning. Clients feel that my expertise in this area adds great value to our planning process.

My passion is helping individuals and families realize their God-given potential. I do this through being actively involved in our church, Leader Impact, First Light Foundation of Hope, as well as individual and small group mentoring. I am the very happy husband of Wanda (since 1981!), the proud father of three amazing young men (Travis, Jeremy and Kyle), and "Grampy" to their expanding families.