– by Doreen Marion Gee –
This is part of a rotating series of articles on members of Sidney Meet Up Women’s Networking Group, featuring women in business on the Saanich Peninsula.
On Fran Daviss’ business cards, a photo of an elderly hand held by a younger one reflects the core of what she does: lending a helping hand to very vulnerable members of our community. When people are in the last stages of their lives or have disabling conditions, they become more vulnerable to people who may take advantage of their fragility. More than ever before, they may need someone to look out for them and their interests. By providing this service in her new business, Fran Daviss is making an important contribution to our community. As a Certified Financial Planner, a Certified Senior Advisor and a Personal Financial Planner, Fran has extensive knowledge of financial, investment, tax, will and estate planning. She is proud to offer “Consulting by Fran” to adults of all ages.
Within “Consulting by Fran”, she can act as someone’s Power of Attorney. “There comes a time in many people’s lives when they are either not comfortable looking after their own finances or are simply no longer capable of doing it.” With one client, the woman wanted to sell some properties. As Power of Attorney, Fran discovered that her client had paid out money years before to a company for renovations that were never done. Fran took control of the situation, hired another company who did the renovations and the two condos were successfully sold. “I protect my clients’ best interests” asserts Fran. When the same client’s children wanted her to move back East, Fran asked her, Do you want to move? No, she said. The woman chose to live in a local retirement home; she loves it there and is active and “having a ball.” Fran involves the family in her work with their mother and reports to them constantly. Putting her client’s well-being above everything else, Fran keeps a trained expert eye on the woman’s finances and investments. She does everything possible to safeguard her interests. “The clients become my friends. I really like to help them and be their advocate.”
In her consulting business, Fran also acts as an Executor / Trustee for clients, and does Will and Estate Planning. “I bring a personal approach to the job.” Fran works very hard on the fine details of end-of-life decisions and arrangements. “I really try to dive down into what their wishes are.” Fran’s genuine caring nature shows: “Some people do not have anyone to advocate for them. That is where I come in – to protect them in the long run and do what’s right.”
We are all vulnerable sometimes and need an ally to look out for us. Fran Daviss has found her niche.
Pn: 778.426.0749, consultingbyfran@shaw.ca
