James Hagen, CLPF, NCG

Fostering connection and understanding between people has been my life’s work.

 

Born and raised in the colorful and thriving culture of San Diego, I grew up with a passion for art and literature, which evolved into a keen interest in the many diverse things that bring life meaning for different people–and also bring them together.

 

I went on to study sociology and anthropology at the University of Redlands, earning my B.A. I then returned home to San Diego with an eagerness to apply what I learned towards helping my community.

 

I began my career in accounting at Meals on Wheels San Diego County, which gave me the opportunity to assist so many wonderful clients and understand their needs firsthand. There was no better experience than being able to deliver a healthy meal and a warm conversation to someone who is isolated and in need of that human connection.

 

My unique position allowed me to go a step further and help seniors and veterans understand their bills, CalFresh program benefits, and other financial concerns. I quickly realized their great need for a guiding hand with a compassionate ear–especially considering the chaos and complexity of the modern financial world, from scams to volatile market fluctuations and everything in between. Sometimes we all need a helping hand, and we each have unique skills to offer one other as a community. This became one of mine.

 

After many years with MOW, I returned to college to earn my fiduciary trustee certificate with California State University Fullerton, then my professional fiduciary license and national guardianship certification. From here I began First Fiduciary San Diego, with the goal of working more closely with seniors and their families to ensure their financial stability and overall well-being.

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I am a stalwart believer that everyone deserves dignity and security no matter their situation, and I strive to help clients maintain these through any hardships that aging may bring. I would be honored to work with you to achieve the highest quality of life for you, your client, or your loved one, and connect you with the caring people who will work together to create and maintain it.