NFCC honors Client of the Year award recipients Cedric Gladney-Porter, Hector Gomez, and Chandra Hawkins-Black

The National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) honored three individuals for their remarkable journeys toward financial stability and resilience during the 2026 NFCC Connect conference in Washington, D.C. Cedric Gladney-Porter, Hector Gomez, and Chandra Hawkins-Black were recognized as this year's recipients of the Client of the Year awards.

Cedric Gladney-Porter faced significant financial challenges, including a devastating house fire that left him in a precarious financial position. With the guidance of OnTrack WNC, Gladney-Porter tackled his back taxes and created a realistic household budget with his spouse. To stay on track, they scheduled regular "money dates." Through his unwavering commitment, Gladney-Porter achieved financial stability and is now actively saving for travel and future goals.

Hector Gomez, following a divorce, was burdened with over $21,000 in credit card debt. He turned to American Financial Solutions for a Debt Management Plan and, through intense discipline, paid off his entire balance ahead of schedule. Today, Gomez works in the banking industry, applying his financial education to travel debt-free, support his mother, and secure his family's future.

Chandra Hawkins-Black overcame housing instability and financial abuse, partnering with Money Management International (MMI) to regain her financial independence. She completed her Debt Management Plan in just 30 months, significantly boosting her credit score. Hawkins-Black continues to make a positive impact as an award-winning educator, published author, and advocate for personal financial empowerment through her platform, Black Sheep Home.

"Being able to celebrate three individuals who embody courage, resilience, and discipline is a privilege," said Mike Croxson, CEO of the NFCC. "Their success underscores the transformative power of the compassionate, expert guidance provided by NFCC member agencies every day."

The NFCC Connect conference, held last week, brought together industry leaders, financial educators, and nonprofit credit counseling agencies to share best practices, discuss industry trends, and celebrate the real-world impact of financial counseling.

Founded in 1951, the NFCC is the nation's first and largest nonprofit dedicated to improving people's financial well-being. With a network of member offices serving 50 states and Puerto Rico, the NFCC provides expert guidance through one-on-one financial reviews that address credit card debt, student loans, housing decisions, and overall money management. For more information, call (800) 388-2227 or visit www.nfcc.org.