Empowered+
A dedicated financial planning experience for the LGBTQ+ community — supported by Lakeshore Financial Group.
At Lakeshore Financial Group, we believe everyone deserves a place where they can talk openly about their goals, their families, and their future. That belief led to the creation of Empowered+, an affiliate office designed specifically to support the financial needs of the LGBTQ+ community.
Empowered+ was founded by Mark Joslyn, a member of the LGBTQ+ community who saw firsthand how few financial spaces feel truly inclusive. Mark recognized a gap — not just in financial guidance, but in culturally aware, welcoming guidance. His vision was to build a space where clients can be their authentic selves and feel understood at every step.
Today, Empowered+ brings that vision to life, combining community-centered care with the full strength, support, and resources of Lakeshore Financial Group.
A Commitment to Advocacy
Lakeshore Financial Group and Empowered+ proudly support organizations that uplift and protect the LGBTQ+ community, including:
- Human Rights Campaign (HRC)
- Equality Illinois
- AIDS Foundation Chicago and more.
Empowered+ also engages with:
- Illinois LGBT Chamber of Commerce
- Out in Finance
- Andersonville Chamber of Commerce (where Mark serves as a member)
These partnerships reflect our ongoing commitment to advocacy, community engagement, and inclusive financial access.
Empowered+
Mark Joslyn
Financial Planner
Mark is known as a generous friend, family member, and advisor. This generosity is showcased through his respectful nature, honesty and integrity, and his dedication to his clients. Mark decided on this career path because he wanted to help people the way he and his husband were helped by their financial advisor. Mark has been a financial advisor with Lakeshore Financial Group since 2020, but previously held such positions as CFO, COO, and Business Owner. He uses this background to continue his education and personal growth.
When not working you can find Mark either traveling with his husband or being an active member in his Chicago Northside community.
Mark Joslyn is insurance licensed in Illinois. Mark is a Registered Representative and Investment Adviser Representative with Equity Services Inc. and offers securities in Illinois.
Pilot Lee
Financial Representative
A Milwaukee native now living on Chicago’s North Side, Pilot Lee (he/she/they) graduated from the University of Wisconsin–Madison with a degree in Personal Finance and Financial Planning, along with core studies in folklore and game design. In 2024, they were honored with the Rosalie Amelia Morton Award from the UW School of Human Ecology, recognizing the most outstanding graduate in the Department of Financial Planning.
Before beginning their career in financial services, Pilot spent eight years in community-focused work across LGBTQ+ centers, the arts, and DEI spaces. That experience continues to shape their approach today and reinforces their commitment to building genuine, trust-based relationships with clients.
