Giving Back
Our Commitment to Our Community
We are committed to actively supporting our local community by volunteering for philanthropic events and contributing to charitable foundations.
Several of the organizations and foundations we have supported include:
VPF team participate again in the Red Sox Foundation's Run to Home Base
July 22nd, 2023
The VPF team, joined by our colleagues at Commonwealth Financial Network, participated in the Red Sox Foundation's Run to Home Base, an organization that focuses on mental health and wellbeing of our veterans returning from their duties. This year the Red Sox Foundation raised over $3 million with over 2500 runners/walkers participating the event. The VPF team was grateful to be part of the event, but most importantly, grateful for our veterans and their steadfast commitment to serving the country. Visit www.runtohomebase.org to learn more.
Ashley, Joanna, and Paul participate in the Charles River Cleanup for Earth Day
April 22nd, 2023
Ashley, Joanna, and Paul joined forces to pick up trash along the riverbank and in the water of the Charles River, helping to make a positive impact on the local environment. As a company, we recognize the importance of sustainability and take pride in our efforts to reduce our carbon footprint. This Earth Day, we encourage everyone to take action and make small changes in their daily lives to help protect our planet.
Joanna and Paul volunteer at "Stuff the Truck" Catholic Charities event
November 17th, 2022
Just before Thanksgiving week, Joanna and Paul volunteered at the 'Stuff the Truck' event hosted by Catholic Charities at Boston College. They spent their Thursday morning collecting donations of clothing, household items, and non-perishable food to support families in need. They had a blast sorting through the donations and loading up the truck.
Joanna and Ashley Participate in the Red Sox Foundation's Run to Home Base
August 1st, 2022
This Saturday, Joanna and Ashley participated in the Red Sox Foundation's Run to Home Base alongside other Commonwealth Financial Advisors as well as the public. In total there were 1,887 runners and walkers, who helped contribute to the $2.3 million raised by the Red Sox Foundation to date! The Run to Home Base provides vital funds for the clinical care and support for Veterans and their Families. Visit www.runtohomebase.org to learn more about how you can donate and get involved!
Vantage Point Financial Sponsors 30th Anniversary of Celebrating Success for The Second Step
May 17th, 2022
The VPF team was proud to sponsor the 30th Anniversary of Celebrating Success for The Second Step. The event was held at the BraeBurn Country Club, and lead to an inspiring and dynamic evening. The Second Step fosters the safety, stability, and well-being of survivors of domestic violence, and the VPF team is honored and proud to support the good work The Second Step does.
Joanna Joins the Boston College Woods For Others Service Organization
February 19th, 2022
In February, Joanna attended a service day benefitting Newton’s Cradles to Crayons organization, along with other students at Boston College. The service day centered around organizing, labeling and packing clothes for children in need, followed by reflection and planning for future service projects. Joanna (back row, second from left) is an advisory board member of Boston College’s new service-learning organization—Woods for Others—which hosted the event. Service learning allows students to participate in community outreach and volunteerism with local non-profits, as a part of their curriculum at Boston College. Joanna and the Woods for Others team look forward to coordinating and hosting many more service days in and around the greater Boston area in the coming months.
Click here to learn more about Cradles to Crayons: https://www.cradlestocrayons.org/boston/
Ashley Participates in Habitat for Humanity Build Day
October 21, 2021
On Thursday, Ashley and the Seahawks Women's Association joined Habitat for Humanity at their La Fortuna site for a build day! Thank you Habitat for Humanity for the opportunity to help build affordable housing in Renton, WA!
To learn more about Habitat for Humanity, click here.
Ashley Participates in The Second Step Video Premiere as Organization Board Member
May 12, 2021
This May, Ashley volunteered with The Second Step, aiding in their video premiere, Plant a Seed: Stories of Strength. A community of survivors, advocates, and volunteers, The Second Step fosters the safety, stability, and well-being of those who have experienced domestic violence. By providing safety planning, legal advocacy, counseling, peer support, transitional housing, and other comprehensive services to adults, youth, and children in the greater Boston area and MetroWest, The Second Step helps domestic violence survivors take their first step away from violence. As a board member of The Second Step, this month Ashley helped the organization plan its video premiere during which survivors and staff reflected on the challenges and triumphs of the past year.
To learn more about The Second Step, click here.
Ashley Helps Coordinate The WAVE Foundation 2021 Virtual Gala as Organization Board Member
March 20, 2021
Due to COVID, this past year charitable organizations have been forced to hold what would have been in-person fundraisers online. Despite this, The WAVE Foundation continues to successfully raise money to support survivors of domestic abuse, sexual assault, and sex trafficking.
As a board member of The WAVE Foundation, Ashley had the opportunity to help organize and plan the charity's annual philanthropic gala this month. With their 2021 Virtual Gala, The WAVE Foundation successfully raised $63,710 to support survivors. By partnering with law firms and corporations, The WAVE Foundation hopes to create a community of legal support for survivors and a future of nonviolent, healthy relationships and communities.
To learn more about The WAVE Foundation, click here.
Seattle Seahawk Tyler Ott and Ashley Ott Donate to Newton Based Charity
December 2, 2019
The Second Step, a Newton-based domestic violence organization, recently announced a partnership with Ashley and Tyler Ott for the NFL’s My Cause My Cleats campaign.
Tyler Ott, a graduate of Harvard University, started his NFL career as a member of the New England Patriots and is currently entering his third season as the long snapper for the Seattle Seahawks. His wife, Ashley, is a board member of The Second Step, which provides critical services, housing, and support to families impacted by domestic violence who need to make a fresh start.
The Otts have commissioned local artist Julieanne Strom Brill to design Tyler’s cleats that he will wear for week 14 of the NFL season. Following the game, The NFL will host an online auction, and 100 percent of proceeds raised by Tyler’s cleats will be donated to The Second Step.
To learn more about The Second Step, click here.
Research Analyst Intern, Jade Volunteers for the Walk to Defeat ALS
October 6, 2019
On Sunday, October 6, 2019, our Research Analyst Intern, Jade, volunteered for the North Shore Walk to Defeat ALS. The walk took place on the beautiful campus of Endicott College, where Jade attends school. Jade and her ice hockey teammates helped with the set-up process, checking participants in and cheering participants on as they united together, walking to end ALS.
The event was quite moving as 50 teams consisting of over 400 participants came together to honor loved ones, fight for those affected, and raise funds. This is Jade’s fourth year volunteering for the event, and every year she is amazed by the ALS community as they are so upbeat.
To learn more about The ALS Association, click here.
David and Ashley Volunteer with Commonwealth Cares at National Conference
October 2, 2019
While in Denver, David and Ashley donated their time to an afternoon of giving back. Along with a peer group of more than 200 advisors, guests, and home office staff, David and Ashley helped assemble and package a remarkable 19,600 nutritious dried-soup meals supporting Conscious Alliance. These meals will be distributed to the organization’s network of food pantries and schools serving low-income students—providing high-quality food that encourages families to eat healthy together.
To learn more about Conscious Alliance, click here.
Ashley Volunteers with the Seahawks Women's Association
September 24, 2019
Along with other Seattle Seahawks players' wives, Ashley attended the SWA Day of Service- this year, benefitting the residents of Mary's Place Family Center in Seattle, WA. Mary's Place is a community non-profit that provides shelter and services for women, children, and families as they make their way out of homelessness.
The SWA Day of Service was dedicated to the young residents of Mary's Place to give them a "day of beauty." The wives of the Seattle Seahawks served lunch and then spent the afternoon providing residents with fun beauty activities: nail polishing, hair, and makeup along with donating items such as new hairbrushes, jewelry, and scarves.
The Seahawks Women's Association also donated undergarments and socks for the residents in addition to the fun activities at the afternoon event.
To learn more about Mary's Place, click here.
David Presents to BU Students About Saving for Retirement
May 1, 2019
David was invited to guest lecture in a Boston University class on the topic of saving for retirement. The class, entitled Adulting, is an elective for senior undergraduate students. Throughout the semester, the students learn important skills for the “adult world,” such as cooking, managing relationships, and negotiating for a job offer.
David discussed the importance of saving for retirement as soon as possible. A five-year difference in when you start saving can lead to a significant amount of difference in your total savings when you retire. He discussed the differences between an IRA, a 401(k), and a Roth IRA, and the benefits of each. David also highlighted the different possible asset allocations of a portfolio and the risk associated with each. The students asked insightful questions throughout the presentation, including some questions regarding the impact of student loans and income taxes on retirement accounts. After the 2-hour lecture, the students left with a greater understanding of the importance of saving for retirement, both in the short-term and the long-run.
When he is not advising clients at VPF, David is a professor of finance and economics in both the undergraduate and MBA programs at the Boston University Questrom School of Management. His courses at Boston University include investments, economics, financial management, and risk management.
Client Administrative Assistant Olivia Runs Annual Boston College Welles Remy Crowther 5K
April 18, 2019
Client Administrative Assistant Olivia Eveslage joined her friends and more than 1,800 participants in this year’s Red Bandana Run. All proceeds from the run are donated to the Welles Remy Crowther Charitable Trust, started by the Crowther family in memory of Welles, a 1999 graduate who died a hero on 9/11. The Trust sponsors scholarships and organizations that support young people who want to make a difference in the community and the lives of others, just as Welles did.
“I get emotional every time I hear Welles’ story,” says Olivia. “It’s very moving to hear of someone voluntarily risking their life in order to save so many others. I love that BC dedicates so much of the month of October to honoring Welles and his family. The Red Bandana is a symbol of service and pride here at BC. Other than the eagle (Boston College’s mascot), I think it’s the best way to represent our community.”
For Welles’ story and information about the Welles Crowther Charitable Trust, please click here.
Ashley Returns as Dreamfar Mentor For Second Year In a Row
April 18, 2019
Ashley has volunteered to be a Dreamfar mentor for the second year in a row.
Dreamfar is New England’s first high school marathon training program. The program teaches students that anything is possible, even completing a marathon. Ashley will help the students realize their potential as they train for the Providence Marathon in May 2018.
The Dreamfar mission is to challenge high school students to reach their full potential—physically, socially, emotionally, and academically—through a mentor-supported marathon training program.
To learn more about Dreamfar, click here.
David and Ashley Sponsor The Second Step
April 12, 2019
David and Ashley were proud to sponsor The Second Step, Celebrating Success Gala last night! A powerful and inspirational evening, bringing together individuals and businesses from Greater Boston to support survivors of domestic violence.
To learn more about The Second Step, please click here.
Ashley and Husband Tyler Volunteer for the Perkins School for the Blind's Annual Easter Egg Hunt
April 7, 2019
VPF partnered with Lightship Wealth Strategies, Inc. to hide over 3,000 beeping Easter eggs for Perkins School for the Blind’s annual Easter Egg Hunt. There were over 400 students, the largest event since it was started 7 years ago.
David Presents at Boston University Lunch and Learn Workshop
May 1, 2018
David delivered a one-hour workshop to Boston University faculty and staff.
The presentation was titled “Understanding BU’s Retirement Plan.” The lunch was attended by more than 20 individuals. David covered information regarding who is eligible, how to enroll, how the current plan is structured and changes coming in 2018. He also explained the different types of accounts and about pre-tax and post-tax contributions. Finally, David spoke about investment choices and possible investment restrictions.
“The Lunch N’ Learn provides the opportunity to put both my professor hat and my practitioner hat on and help my co-workers at BU. I want to make sure they are making the best possible decisions for their retirement,” said David.
The Lunch N’ Learn program at BU’s Questrom School of Business gives faculty and staff an opportunity to enjoy their lunch while listening to a fellow faculty member present on a topic of their expertise.
Ashley to Run the 2018 Boston Marathon For Dreamfar Non-Profit
May 1, 2018
There are few more iconic things attributed to Boston than the Boston Marathon. Celebrating its 121st year in 2018, the Boston Marathon was first run in April 1897. Hundreds of thousands of athletes have persevered down this 26.2 mile stretch on Patriot’s Day since then, raising millions for charities and non-profits along the way.
This year VPF is thrilled to announce that Ashley will be running the Boston Marathon for Dreamfar, a non-profit which Ashley has been involved as a mentor for three years. Dreamfar strives “to challenge high school students to reach their full potential—physically, socially, and emotionally—through a mentor-supported marathon training program.” Ashley has been a mentor in the program for many years, and, this year, is running and raising money for the Boston Marathon as part of the Dreamfar team.
To read more about Dreamfar or if you are interested in getting involved, visit their website here.
If you are interested in contributing to Ashley’s fund-raiser for the Marathon, visit here.
Ashley Runs Providence Marathon With Other Dreamfar Mentors
May 7, 2017
Ashley completed the Providence Marathon on May 7, 2017! She ran alongside two high school students from the DreamFar High School Marathon Program, where Ashley volunteers as a mentor.
DreamFar High School Marathon (DHSM) is New England’s first high school marathon training program. Ashley trained alongside the students starting in November and followed a vigorous five-month training program, with early Saturday morning training runs.
When asked to describe her mentees, Ashley said, "The DreamFar students inspire me every day, I could never imagine completing a marathon before completing high school, and my students did it! The commitment and drive need to follow a marathon training schedule is no easy task. These high school kids show grit!"
Ashley became of mentor for DreamFar because it teaches the students realistic goal-setting and the value of commitment and teamwork —skills that ensure success in the classroom, on the road, and beyond.
To learn more about Dreamfar, click here.
Ashley and Husband Tyler Attend Centennial Touch Football Fundraiser
April 9, 2017
Ashley and her husband Tyler participated in a charity football game at Harvard Stadium on Sunday, April 9th. The games were in honor of our 35th President John F. Kennedy's 100th birthday this spring.
"We are proud to support Kennedy Library's free education programming and enjoyed the opportunity to do so through a friendly game of touch football."
The games acknowledging his lasting impact on the modern-day President's Council on Fitness, Sports & Nutrition, and with a nod to the Kennedy family's well-documented love of touch football, the JFK Presidential Library and Museum coordinated 35 touch football games across Massachusetts.
All of the money raised will help support Kennedy Library's free education programming for public school students in high-need districts.
Ashley Runs 10K in Support of Dreamfar Non-Profit
January 22, 2017
Ashley ran the 5th Annual Dreamfar 10k at Sharon High School in Sharon, MA, on January 22, 2017, to support the Dreamfar High School Marathon program.
Ashley took to the course on Sunday, joining more than 450 runners to support the Dreamfar program.
“I’ve always loved running, but being able to help high school students achieve the “impossible” (running a marathon) makes the blisters worth it,” says Ashley. Since 2008, Dreamfar has given more than 400 students the opportunity to realize the significant achievement of completing a marathon.
The Dreamfar mission is to challenge high school students to reach their full potential—physically, socially, emotionally, and academically—a mentor-supported marathon training program.
