Financial Advising Exclusively for LGBTQIA+ Individuals
LGBTQIA+ individuals continue to face challenges that go beyond visibility. In Illinois alone, there are 15 active bills centered on restrictions and bans that, even if not passed, are designed to harm and intimidate. When it comes to finances, the reality is equally stark. According to HRC’s 2024 LGBTQ+ Financial Wellness Report, 3 in 10 LGBTQ+ adults say they’ve experienced discrimination while accessing financial services such as being denied a joint account or loan with a same-gender partner or being charged a higher interest rate.
That same report shows that nearly half (48.1%) of LGBTQ+ adults describe themselves as financially unwell, compared to just 25.7% of the general public.
At Empowered+ and Lakeshore Financial Group, we believe financial confidence is a right, not a privilege. We exist to help return that confidence—and pride—back to the LGBTQIA+ community, where it belongs.
Where It All Began
Empowered+ was founded by Mark Joslyn, a former media executive who transitioned into financial services after a life-changing experience working with an advisor. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, Mark recognized just how often LGBTQIA+ individuals are underserved or completely overlooked in some cases when it comes to financial guidance.
In 2023, he launched Empowered+ under Lakeshore Financial Group, with a clear mission: to provide deeply personal financial planning in a space built on trust, inclusion, and understanding. Today, Empowered+ offers financial services specifically for individuals, couples, families, and business owners within the LGBTQIA+ community.
What Makes Empowered+ Different
At Empowered+, they go beyond traditional financial planning. Their work often includes guidance around sensitive family matters, business formation and protection, and strategies that account for legal and financial realities unique to LGBTQIA+ individuals.
They’ve created a space where clients can have honest conversations without fear of judgment with subjects like debt, family planning, healthcare, retirement, or simply where to start. Time and again, clients leave their first meeting feeling heard, respected, and more in control of their future.
Empowered+ is one of the very few financial services offices in the Chicagoland area focused exclusively on serving LGBTQIA+ clients. What the team stands for is important, but what Mark and his colleagues do with their clients every day is what truly makes the difference.
Creating Change That Lasts
Now in its second year, Empowered+ continues to grow its team and expand its reach. As part of Lakeshore Financial Group and National Life Group, the team offers both expert guidance and access to a full suite of financial resources and solutions.
Mark actively involved in organizations like the LGBTQ+ Real Estate Alliance and the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce, and he's committed to continuing our work at both the individual and community levels.
Pride Month is a time to celebrate progress, but also a reminder that there’s more work to do. Empowered+ exists to ensure LGBTQIA+ individuals, families, and business owners have access to financial guidance that respects who they are and supports them fully.
Looking ahead, Empowered+ is building a team of financial professionals who share that mission. For those who believe in creating change, leading with purpose, and serving with empathy, this is the place to start.
Join our team
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