(NewsUSA) - Becoming a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER^™ professional means more than just a successful career — it means joining a supportive community. CFP Board and CFP^® professionals foster this community at various stages of the CFP^® certification journey. For both current CFP^® professionals and those aspiring to be CFP^® professionals, community involvement includes the following:

Working with a mentor. Preparing for the CFP^® exam can seem overwhelming, but CFP^® professional mentors can help candidates with time management, study strategies, motivation and managing their work/life balance. CFP Board offers specific mentoring programs that line up with the exams offered in March, July and November. The program is free; all you must do is create a profile and you will be matched with a mentor.

Connecting with peers. CFP Board’s Candidate Forum offers a unique opportunity for those on the path to becoming a CFP^® professional. You can be part of an online community to engage with other candidates at all stages on the path to certification. Use the forum to ask questions, share your own tips and find support. The convenient community site includes blogs with expert perspectives about issues that affect candidates for CFP^® certification as well as educational resources and information about upcoming events such as exam dates and webinars.

Learning together. The recent CFP Board Diversity Summit featured experts on topics of diversity, equity and inclusion in financial planning, with discussions of recent research and personal stories. The Summit was designed to be a place for connection and community-building among CFP^® professionals of all backgrounds.

CFP Board also hosts Certificant Connection events — both in person and online — throughout the year to share relevant news and networking opportunities. These events provide updates on how CFP Board is strengthening the value of CFP^® certification.

Volunteering. Some CFP^® professionals serve as CFP Board Ambassadors. These CFP^® professionals, chosen for their leadership skills, passion for the importance of financial planning and commitment to CFP Board’s mission, speak to media outlets and write articles to promote CFP^® certification to the public.

Becoming a CFP^® professional is not only about helping others but also about joining a fast-growing profession that pays well and is dedicated to creating inclusive environments that support individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Your financial planning career and one-of-a-kind community awaits. Get started today.