National Foundation for Credit Counseling Recognizes Three Inspiring Individuals Who Overcame Debt Challenges to Achieve Financial Stability

Cedric Gladney-Porter, Hector Gomez, and Chandra Hawkins-Black honored for their remarkable financial transformations and resilience.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Foundation for Credit Counseling® (NFCC®) proudly announced the winners of the 2026 Client of the Year awards, celebrating individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary resilience and success in their journey toward financial wellness. The awards were presented last week during a dedicated ceremony at the 2026 NFCC Connect conference in Washington, D.C.

This year's honorees—Cedric Gladney-Porter, Hector Gomez, and Chandra Hawkins-Black—were recognized for their outstanding dedication to transforming their financial lives with the guidance of their NFCC Certified Credit Counselors.

Cedric Gladney-Porter faced significant financial setbacks, including navigating the devastating impact of a house fire. Determined to rebuild his financial foundation, Cedric partnered with OnTrack WNC. Together, they addressed back taxes, created a realistic household budget with his spouse, and instituted weekly "money dates" to keep their goals on track. Through steady commitment, Cedric achieved lasting financial stability and is now actively saving for the future and his travel goals.

Following a divorce, Hector Gomez found himself carrying over $21,000 in credit card debt. He took proactive control of his situation by enrolling in a Debt Management Plan through American Financial Solutions, and through intense discipline, he paid off his entire balance ahead of schedule. Today, Hector works in the banking industry, applying his financial education to travel debt-free, support his mother, and build a secure future for his family.

Having overcome housing instability and financial abuse, Chandra Hawkins-Black partnered with Money Management International (MMI) to reclaim her financial independence. She executed her Debt Management Plan with remarkable speed, completing it in just 30 months while significantly boosting her credit score. Chandra built a new home and continues to make an impact as an award-winning educator, published author, and advocate for personal agency through her platform, Black Sheep Home.

"It is an absolute privilege to celebrate three individuals whose courage, resilience, and discipline represent the very best of what our members help make possible," said Mike Croxson, CEO of the NFCC. "Their success serves as a powerful testament to the life-changing impact of the compassionate, expert guidance provided by NFCC member agencies every single day."

The annual NFCC Connect conference brings 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.

About the NFCC

Founded in 1951, the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) is the nation's first and largest nonprofit dedicated to improving people's financial well-being. With a national network of member offices serving 50 states and Puerto Rico, our NFCC Certified Credit Counselors are financial advocates, empowering millions of consumers to take charge of their finances through one-on-one financial reviews that address credit card debt, student loans, housing decisions, and overall money management. For expert guidance and advice, call (800) 388-2227 or visit www.nfcc.org.

SOURCE National Foundation For Credit Counseling