Virginia Beach, VA

Don is one of Financial Growth Partners' most "senior" members, having entered the financial services field shortly after earning his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Delaware in 1971. He joined The Guardian Life Insurance Company in August 1974, and has been an active supporter of NAIFA since 1978.    Don earned his Chartered Life Underwriter® degree from the American College in 1979.  He first qualified for  the Million Dollar Round Table in 1982, and had achieved Lifetime Membership in this prestigious    organization.

Don prides himself on his relationships with his clients, who now reside in 24 states, Europe, Canada and Central America. His knowledge is in helping families and small business owners provide protection and accumulate wealth for retirement, as well as guiding them with their "exit strategy" once retirement is upon them.

In what he terms a "midlife adventure," Don moved his family from Long Island to Virginia Beach in 1990. He has been married to Patti since 1973, and has two adult sons, Dave and Chris, daughter-in-law Maria and grandchildren Audrey, Jack and Henry. He is an active member of St. Aidan's Episcopal Church, having served on its Vestry twice, and is currently serving on its Finance Committee. He loves to travel and has a passion for scenic photography, with his work having appeared in several locations throughout Virginia Beach.

I am a Virginia Beach native who believes everyone deserves financial security and the confidence that comes with it. That's why I take a personalized approach to planning, getting to know my clients and understanding their unique needs and aspirations.
I'm here to guide you on your financial journey. Whether you're saving for retirement, planning for your children's education, or looking to grow your wealth, I'll work closely with you to develop a customized plan that aligns with your goals and risk tolerance.
I'm committed to your success. I'll provide ongoing advice and support, keeping you informed about changes and helping adjust your plan as needed. I'm here to empower you to make informed financial decisions with confidence.
My Virginia Wesleyan business degree keeps me on top of things, but my true passion is squeezing every drop of experience out of life – whether it's exploring hidden corners of the world, creating lasting memories with my family, or simply expanding my knowledge. Let's just say, life's a thrilling mystery, and I'm determined to solve it, one adventure at a time!

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Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities and Financial Representative of Guardian.

Meet Frank, a dedicated Financial Representative with deep roots in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Raised in a culturally diverse household, his father being Filipino/Cuban-American and his mother Irish-Canadian. Frank has a unique perspective that resonates well with first and second-generation families. His passion for guiding individuals through the intricacies of financial services stems from a desire to empower those who may not have had the opportunity to learn its value earlier in life.

Frank's commitment to service extends beyond the financial realm, as evidenced by his decade-long career in law enforcement. The camaraderie he experienced in that field seamlessly transitioned into his role at Financial Growth Partners (FGP). Drawn to FGP's strong sense of community, Frank found a natural fit for his inclination to support law enforcement and first responders in their financial journeys.

Inspiration for Frank's career shift struck during a moving moment when a colleague unexpectedly passed away. Sharing the same financial advisor, Frank witnessed firsthand the profound impact of comprehensive financial services on the lives of loved ones left behind. Motivated by this experience, he chose to redirect his professional path, becoming a financial representative dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of his clients. When not navigating the financial landscape, Frank cherishes moments with his family, enjoys the company of friends, and takes on the challenge of improving his golf game.

Financial Representative of Guardian. CA Insurance License #4275153.

A Richmond native with deep roots in service and leadership, Gary brings over 22 years of experience in the United States Army to his role as a financial representative. Serving in both active and reserve components as a paratrooper and officer across armor, logistics, and civil affairs, he deployed to Iraq and multiple Middle Eastern locales, honing the discipline, strategic thinking, and dedication that now guide his approach to financial planning. Gary holds an undergraduate degree in English Literature from Virginia Military Institute and a Master’s in Organizational Leadership & Development from Norwich University, blending analytical skill with leadership expertise. Following his military career, he gained valuable experience in defense contracting and logistics, further shaping his problem-solving approach.

Gary became a Financial Representative to continue his commitment to service. Helping clients build steady, purpose-driven lives while providing for their families on their own terms. He specializes in serving military personnel, veterans, and first responders, while also working with dentists, nurses, and tradespeople. His mission is clear: earn client trust through loyalty, integrity, and performance. With expertise in VA benefits, disability, and 529 plans, Gary provides strategic guidance rooted in personal honor and a dedication to doing what’s right.

Outside the office, Gary is a devoted husband and father, sharing a love of martial arts with his wife, Carmen, a professional boxer, and spending quality time with their son, dogs, and ferrets. He enjoys reading, exploring military history, and embracing life with curiosity and discipline. Gary joined FGP because it offers a place where he can serve clients well, help colleagues grow, and continue building a life that balances purpose, performance, and personal fulfillment.

Hunter Hickman is a Relationship Development Associate (RDA) at Financial Growth Partners (FGP), where he helps individuals and families build a solid foundation of financial protection. With a strong capacity for empathy and clear communication, Hunter's mission is to guide his clients with transparency, emphasizing protection and long-term confidence. His journey into financial services was shaped by a diverse background, including his experience as a swim instructor, IT help desk technician at Old Dominion University (ODU), and even as a gun salesman, which all cultivated his passion for service and protection.

Born in Fredericksburg, VA, and having grown up in Reston, VA, Hunter is deeply committed to helping others feel prepared for life’s uncertainties. His personal goal is to build a life with his family in the 757, where he can live by the values of confidence, responsibility, and connection. His love for the beach and fascination with technology provide a well-rounded balance to his professional life. At FGP, Hunter found a like-minded company where protection is just as valued as he does—helping ensure that every client receives not just a financial roadmap, but a stable, thoughtful strategy for their future.

With over seven years in the financial services industry, I help individuals and families take control of their financial futures through personalized, comprehensive planning. My areas of experience include risk management, investment and retirement planning, education funding, cash flow mapping, debt paydown strategies, and estate planning strategies.

I hold investment licenses including the SIE, Series 6, Series 63, and Life, Accident & Health Insurance, equipping me to provide a wide range of guidance tailored to each client’s needs. My approach is rooted in education and empathy, aiming to simplify complex financial topics so clients feel confident in every decision.

My journey into financial services began in 2016, after the sudden loss of my older brother. That experience, along with being raised in a family deeply committed to planning, showed me just how critical it is to have a plan for the unexpected. It’s why I do what I do—and why I care so deeply about helping others prepare, protect, and prosper.

Outside of work, I enjoy life on the water boating and fishing with my husband and our two kids. I'm also passionate about photography, gardening, and hosting friends in our backyard—because just like planning, life is about creating moments worth remembering.

Financial Representative of Guardian.

With a background as a Navy cryptologist and experience in door-to-door sales, Kenneth brings a unique blend of strategic thinking and interpersonal skills to the world of financial advising. Originally from Minooka, IL, Kenneth embodies the values of growth, faith, optimism, and compassion in his professional and personal life.

Kenneth's journey into financial services stems from his unwavering commitment to lead from the front while maintaining a harmonious work-life balance. His passion lies in making a tangible impact on people's lives by providing them with the invaluable gift of financial confidence. Specializing in serving military veterans and families in similar life stages, Kenneth's mission is rooted in understanding his clients' needs deeply rather than just providing surface-level solutions. Outside of the office, Kenneth can often be found enjoying his favorite Chicago sports teams, spending quality time with family, or staying active with workouts. Joining Financial Growth Partners was a natural choice for Kenneth, driven by his desire to serve clients in a truly distinctive manner that aligned perfectly with his values and ethos.

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Registered Representative of Park Avenue Securities and Financial Representative of Guardian. CA Insurance License #4091098.

Matt Tuttle is a proud U.S. Navy Veteran and retired Virginia Beach Police Sergeant with 25 years of dedicated service. Having transitioned into the field of financial services, Matt leverages years of leadership experience and a strategic mindset to help others safeguard their income and secure their future. Having had the opportunity to invest in retirement early as a young police officer, Matt is now reaping the benefits of that foresight after a fulfilling career. This personal experience has fueled a passion for helping others make sound financial decisions.

Matt brings a unique perspective to financial strategy and client relations. Matt is committed to offering personalized, transparent, and effective planning solutions. Whether assisting fellow first responders, veterans, or blue-collar employees at the start of their careers or those approaching retirement, Matt believes it’s never too late to make smart financial choices and is eager to help others secure their financial futures.

Financial Representative of Guardian.

I'm a Business Development Associate at Financial Growth Partners, where I help families and young professionals gain financial clarity and build a strong future. Raised in Virginia Beach, I’ve always been motivated by the idea of helping others—whether it was supporting my family or guiding my clients toward their financial goals.

After earning my General Studies and Economics degrees from Tidewater Community College and Virginia Tech, I started my career as a care attendant and cashier. These roles gave me invaluable experience in serving others, which I now apply to my work in financial services.

One of my core motivations comes from my personal experience with my brother, who has autism.
Watching my parents navigate the tough questions about their plans for his future inspired me to help other families in similar situations. I aim to provide financial ease and direction for families with special needs and give young professionals the tools to reach their financial goals.

At Financial Growth Partners, I’ve found an environment that not only fosters growth but also embraces individuality. There's no one right way to succeed here, which has allowed me to bring my authentic self to work and focus on building long-term, meaningful relationships with my clients.

When I’m not helping clients achieve their financial goals, I’m probably talking movies. Film is my biggest hobby—whether watching or making them—and I love diving into the art form with anyone who’s interested.

If you're looking for a financial ally who is responsible, respectful of your time, and committed to your success, let’s connect. I’d love to help you plan for the future and reach your financial aspirations.

Rachel Zimmerman is a Business Development Associate at Financial Growth Partners, based in Virginia Beach, where she combines her passion for helping others with a strong commitment to promoting financial success. With a Bachelor's degree from James Madison University and previous experience as a fitness coach, Rachel brings a unique perspective to financial advising, focusing on creating a positive, meaningful impact for families and individuals across the country.

Driven by the desire to help others build wealth and confidence, Rachel works with clients to develop tailored strategies that align with their financial goals. Her dedication to improving lives extends beyond her professional work—whether she's coaching part-time at Orangetheory Fitness, walking on the beach, or traveling the world, Rachel is always seeking new experiences and ways to enrich her life and those around her.

Rachel joined FGP because she was looking for a career with purpose—one that would allow her to make a real difference. With her values rooted in personal growth, community impact, and helping others achieve success, Rachel is excited to contribute to FGP’s mission and continue making a lasting, positive difference in the financial lives of her clients.

Financial Representative of Guardian.

The winding path that has brought me to this career is something I am so thankful for. Born and raised in Portsmouth, I had always wanted to be a Police Officer. I stayed local and earned a BA in Sociology with a minor in Religious Studies from Christopher Newport University in 2007. That same year, I started the Police Academy to pursue what was my dream career. After 17 years in Law Enforcement, my personal dreams had shifted, and I truly wanted to be more present with my family. When I received a message from FGP, I thought this might be a fit. As I went through the process, I realized that FGP truly aligns with my view of people and finances. This new journey would also offer more time to be a husband and dad.

FGP, for me, was a new start and provides a new way to serve the public. Coming into the Financial Services world, I realized the gaps that exist in financial readiness. It is my goal to serve the First Responder Community, Government Workers, and Small Businesses as a large part of my practice. These markets are often out in the world putting in work, and those who perform these jobs often feel there is not anyone guiding their plan for the future. Along with those markets, I am open and interested in working with clients who want to learn, empower themselves, and excel at money and financial readiness.

Financial Representative of Guardian