About
Take Charge America
Take Charge America is a nonprofit financial counseling agency that has helped more than 2 million people nationwide transform their financial outlooks with one-on-one guidance to pay off debts, regain financial independence and save for the future. An industry pioneer and leader, we are proud to drive many of the innovations and services that have supported consumers in financial distress since 1987.
As a nonprofit agency, our mission is rooted in providing our clients and the general public with free financial education. We offer counseling, resources and knowledge that generate a profound ripple effect, improving financial wellbeing at the individual, household and community levels – and ultimately leading to a positive and sustainable economic impact.
We have already helped our clients manage and repay more than $6 billion in personal debts – and we have offered much-needed guidance to millions more through our public outreach and education efforts, preventing many debt challenges from developing in the first place.
Highest Level of Industry Standards
We are committed to the highest levels of ethical business practices and quality service, taking extra steps to earn, maintain and even set industry standards.
Better Business Bureau
For decades, we have maintained an A+ rating from the BBB of Arizona, the highest possible rating a member organization can receive for sound and transparent business practices.
COA Accreditation
We have proudly attained COA Accreditation. Council on Accreditation is an independent organization that ensures all of our programs and services are delivered at the highest possible standards.
National Foundation for Credit Counseling®
Considered the “Gold Standard” in financial counseling, we are active members of the NFCC, a nonprofit association providing counselor education, legislative advocacy and expansive consumer resources.
Financial Counseling Association of America
As a member of the FCAA, a member-supported national association, we meet strict statutory requirements and commit to delivering services with integrity, fairness and professionalism.
Mission
Take Charge America provides financial education and counseling services to improve the lives of individuals and families.
Vision
Take Charge America will be an essential lifelong resource for those seeking education, guidance, options and solutions for improving their financial health.
Code of Ethics
Ethical, accurate performance is crucial to our success as a nonprofit organization. We value the trust our stakeholders have placed in us, and we adhere to a code of ethics in order to maintain it.
Core Values
Commitment to quality service and education
Accountability to the public
Commitment beyond the law
Respect for pluralism and diversity
Transparency, integrity and honesty
Accuracy, timeliness and follow through
Responsible stewardship of resources
Respect for the worth and dignity of individuals
Commitment to excellence, always
In the Community
We offer free tools, resources and guidance to people facing a variety of financial challenges, helping them develop effective financial habits, budget to meet living expenses and manage debt. Learn what we do, how we do it, and how you or your organization can benefit.
Learn moreLeadership
Executive Team
Manuel Salazar, MBA, CFM
CEO
With a strong focus on innovation and meeting consumer demand, CEO Manuel Salazar oversees the greater execution of Take Charge America’s vision to serve as a lifelong resource for individuals and families seeking financial guidance. Bringing more than two decades of experience in nonprofit and technology industries, Manuel expertly guides the development of people, operations and services. He draws on leadership experiences across diverse markets to help TCA identify the needs of Americans struggling with debt, and to fill gaps.
Read full bioWendy Anderson
Vice President/Secretary/Chief Compliance & Operations Officer
Wendy directs and manages regulatory compliance activities including state licensing applications and reporting, regulatory examinations, and dissemination of applicable statutory requirements for bankruptcy, credit counseling, housing counseling and student loan counseling services.
Read full bioRichard McDaniel
Director of Security
As head of IT, Richard identifies and executes corporate security initiatives and standards. He resolves technical difficulties while embracing long-term strategic thinking to ensure sensitive financial information, assets and intellectual property are protected.
Read full bioBoard of Directors
Alice Sweeney, Chairman
Industry Consultant
Self Employed
Ralph Gilbertsen
Retired
Former Managing Director, CBRE, Inc.
Kerwin Brown
Managing Principal
K-Vaughn Consulting, LLC
Deborah Haynes, Ph.D
Associate Professor, Health & Human Development
Montana State University
Jody Davis
Private Mortgage Banker
BMO Harris Bank
Andrea White
Master Certified Coach
Self Employed
Jonathan Fox, Ph.D
Professor, Human Development & Family Studies
Iowa State University
Brenda Blunt
Partner
Eide Bailly LLP
Del-Monte Edwards
Executive Director
Tanner Properties, Inc.
Explore Free Financial Resources
Arm yourself with the knowledge to create lifelong financial independence. Get tips and tools for managing debt, developing effective financial habits, budgeting to meet living expenses and saving for the future.
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