While this is a new role for me, I am no stranger to volunteering for CSMFO. I first joined the Professional Standards Committee in 2017 and am still serving on that committee. In addition, I am a member of the Inland Empire Chapter Leadership team, assisting our wonderful Chapter Chair, Tori Roberts, with planning and executing successful chapter meetings. You may be asking yourself, how do you have capacity for all this volunteer work? Do you have a day job? Why yes, I do have a day job, which actually sometimes feels like more of an all-the-time 24/7 job. I have been working in the Municipal Finance industry as a Special Tax Consultant for nearly 20 years. I really enjoy what I do and I also enjoy giving back. And on occasion, when I take on more than I can handle on my own, I rely on the support of my amazing and wonderful team at Webb Municipal Finance. “Volunteer” or “Voluntold”, they pitch in with enthusiasm. I may also have a fully stocked mini fridge in my office, for those late nights!

 

I sometimes wonder to myself, why didn’t I start volunteering earlier? It’s quite possibly because I was unaware of the benefits and maybe I even thought I wasn’t “qualified”. What are the benefits? For me, the most valuable benefit is getting to meet and develop relationships with new people on a regular basis. It is amazing the bank of knowledge we all have access to if we just put ourselves out there. In addition, I’ve also made some wonderful, lifelong, friends. Speaking of knowledge, just sitting in various committee meetings I’ve been able to learn so much about what’s going on in the industry and get truly valuable explanations on topics of interest without even asking. My stock of knowledge for elevator conversations and small talk has grown exponentially! Whether you’re new to the industry or a seasoned professional but you’re afraid you’re not qualified, trust me, there is a place for you! Like any career, volunteering can start with just getting your feet wet and learning as you go. Man a table, pass out flyers, or even just type up some notes. No matter where you are in your career, there is a place for you if you want it.

 

We are so fortunate to be working in an industry where, more often than not, your peers and colleagues want to see you succeed and are willing to help. Do you have a question that needs to be answered, but you don’t know who to ask? CSMFO has a message board for that! Are you looking for a mentor to assist in developing your career? CSMFO has a program for that as well! Public or Private, this organization provides many opportunities to mix, mingle, and learn with and from colleagues from all sectors of finance, on all levels of skill. Why not give back and take advantage of all the opportunities available at the same time?

 

If this article sparked your interest, feel free to reach out, I’d be happy to connect you with the right people. Or you may connect with us via the CSMFO Volunteer Interest Form.

Heidi Schoeppe is the President/Managing Director and Chief Compliance Officer for Webb Municipal Finance, LLC. She is a registered principal municipal advisor representative and a leader in the development of innovative solutions for the formation and administration of special financing districts for municipalities throughout California and Nevada.

Heidi has nearly 20 years of experience in providing full program management, administration, annexation, district auditing, constituent relations, and consulting services. Heidi has authored disclosure, debt, and land secured special financing district policies, staying in front of legislative updates to ensure her clients are receiving sound guidance.

Heidi currently serves as Vice Chair to the Communication Committee and as an Advisor to the CSMFO Professional Standard Committee. In addition, Heidi is a member of the Leadership Team for the Inland Empire Chapter of CSMFO.