March 2025
9.10.25 – Understanding Social Security Benefits with Brandon Smith
Upcoming Webinar: Understanding Social Security Benefits with Brandon Smith
Join us for an exclusive Social Security webinar with Brandon P. Smith, Public Affairs Specialist, Social Security Administration
Navigating Social Security can be complex, but it doesn’t have to be. Join us for a free, informative webinar with Brandon Smith, where we’ll break down the essentials of Social Security benefits and empower you with the knowledge you need to make confident decisions.
During the webinar, we will discuss:
- The work, age and relational requirements for Social Security retirement, spousal and survivor benefits
- The different methods of applying for benefits
- The earnings limits for individuals receiving benefits
- The basics of the Social Security Fairness Act
- How to create and use a My Social Security Account
- Explain how to apply for a replacement Social Security card
This webinar is perfect for:
- Individuals nearing retirement
- Spouses or survivors considering benefit options
- Anyone interested in understanding Social Security policies and procedures
- Professionals helping clients with retirement planning
About the Speaker: Brandon P. Smith Public Affairs Specialist, Social Security Administration B.A., Interpersonal and Public Communication, University of Akron, Akron, OH
Brandon Smith, a native of Cleveland, Ohio, joined the Social Security Administration in 2003. Prior to this, Brandon worked as a teacher for 3 years in the Diocese of Cleveland. He started his government career as a Claims Representative in the Middleburg Heights field office, specializing in Retirement, Survivors, Disability, and Health Insurance. In 2007, Brandon became the Public Affairs Specialist in the metro Cleveland area. Brandon is the primary contact for media relations, outreach, and presentations for the agency in Cuyahoga, Lake, Lorain, and Geauga counties. In 2012, Brandon received a Regional Communicator Award from the Social Security Administration. Later that year, Brandon was among the inaugural recipients of the Black Diamond award from the Greater Cleveland Delta Foundation Life Development Center. Brandon is a member of the 2014 Kaleidoscope Magazine’s 40 under 40 Club. And in the summer of 2015, Brandon received a Deputy Commissioner Citation from Social Security’s Office of Communication for his outstanding public affairs support of the agency’s national communication initiatives.
Brandon is a member of various cultural and educational institutions in Greater Cleveland, such as the Western Reserve Historical Society and the Cleveland Museum of Art. Brandon and his lovely wife, LaToya, are the proud parents of two beautiful children, a handsome son and a beautiful daughter, along with two cats.
When:
Wednesday, September 10, 2025 | 7:00 PM
Where:
Zoom Webinars (Registration Required) – Register Here
There is neither a cost nor any obligation to attend this event. You are encouraged to invite family and friends.
Raymond James is not affiliated with and does not endorse the opinions of Brandon Smith.
Lake Humane Society Celebrates Recent Renovations
SOLD OUT! 8.29.25 Glow Golf Benefit at Little Mountain Country Club
Friday, August 29, 2025
Get ready for an unforgettable summer evening filled with fun, friends, and a little friendly competition at Little Mountain Country Club! Join us for an exciting round of Glow in the Dark Golf, kicked off with dinner and drinks. Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, it’s all about having a great time as we hit glowing golf balls under the night sky. Proceeds will be donated to the New Beginning Initiative.
OUTING FORMAT
- (7) hole 4-person scramble
- Dinner: 7:30 – 8:30 PM
- Shot Gun starts at 8:45 PM
- Wrap-Up and Desserts at 11:00 PM
COST – $90 per person or $350 per foursome
Carver Cares Partner – The New Beginning Initiative
Raymond James is not affiliated with the New Beginning Initiative or Carver Cares Charities.
Randy Carver: How Fighting Cancer as A Teen Led Me to Build a $3 Billion Wealth Management Firm
29th Annual Resource Breakfast
Our 29th Annual Resource Breakfast featured a special guest, Professor Jeremy Siegel, Senior Economist.
7.19.25 Empty the Kennels Adoption Event with Lake Humane Society
Saturday, July 19, 2025
Join us for the “Empty the Kennels” Adoption Event in partnership with the Lake Humane Society!
Carver Financial Services is excited to partner with the Lake Humane Society for the Empty the Kennels adoption event this summer! This is your chance to meet wonderful dogs and cats that are looking for their forever homes.
Come meet the adorable and loving dogs and cats available for adoption! and Our team will be there to help match you with your perfect companion. Enjoy delicious treats from the Freaky Fruits on-site food truck! Grab a refreshing bite and hang out while you find your new furry friend.
Carver Financial Services is proud to give back to the community by helping bring more awareness to the importance of adoption. Help us give these sweet pets a second chance of having a forever home.
Please feel free to bring your family & friends!
Date: Saturday, July 19th
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Carver Financial Services Parking Lot – 7473 Center Street Mentor, OH 44060
Carver Financial Services named to Forbes’ 2025 Best-In-State List of Top Wealth Management Teams
January 10, 2025 – Carver Financial Services is honored to announce its inclusion in Forbes’ 2025 “Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams” list for Ohio. This prestigious recognition underscores the firm’s unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional financial advisory services and personalized client solutions. Carver Financial Services ranked #4 out of 179 in Ohio.
Forbes, in collaboration with SHOOK Research, evaluates wealth management teams across the nation based on a comprehensive set of criteria, including industry experience, revenue trends, assets under management, compliance records, and best practices in client service. The 2025 ranking reflects data from the period of March 31, 2023, to March 31, 2024.
Carver Financial Services, founded by Randy Carver, CRPC®, CDFA®, has consistently demonstrated excellence in the financial services industry. The firm’s dedication to helping clients achieve their personal vision through individualized planning and a team-based approach has been a cornerstone of its success.
“We are deeply honored to be recognized by Forbes as the fourth top wealth management team in Ohio,” said Randy Carver. “This accolade is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team, as well as the trust and loyalty of our clients. We remain committed to providing personalized financial strategies that align with our clients’ unique goals and aspirations.”
Carver Financial Services has a rich history of accolades, including previous rankings in Forbes’ Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams.
The 2025 Forbes ranking of America’s Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams, developed by SHOOK Research, is based on an algorithm of qualitative criteria, mostly gained through telephone and in-person due diligence interviews, and quantitative data. This ranking is based upon the period from 3/31/2023 to 3/31/2024 and was released on 01/09/2025. Advisor teams that are considered must have one advisor with a minimum of seven years of experience, have been in existence as a team for at least one year, have at least 5 team members, and have been nominated by their firm. The algorithm weights factors like revenue trends, assets under management, compliance records, industry experience and those that encompass best practices in their practices and approach to working with clients. Portfolio performance is not a criteria due to varying client objectives and lack of audited data. Out of approximately 11,674 team nominations, 5,331 advisor teams received the award based on thresholds. This ranking is not indicative of an advisor’s future performance, is not an endorsement, and may not be representative of individual clients’ experience. Neither Raymond James nor any of its Financial Advisors or RIA firms pay a fee in exchange for this award/rating. Compensation provided for using the rating. Raymond James is not affiliated with Forbes or Shook Research, LLC. Please see https://www.forbes.com/lists/wealth-management-teams-best-in-state for more info.
5.15.25 Meet. Mix. Mingle
Thursday, May 15th – Meet, Mix & Mingle
You’re invited to a special event exclusively for Carver clients—a chance to connect, share, and build meaningful relationships. Whether you’re seeking friendship, companionship, or something more, this relaxed and welcoming gathering is the perfect place to meet like-minded individuals.
Enjoy an evening of engaging conversations, laughter, and great music, with a live DJ setting the tone for a vibrant and memorable experience.
Savor delicious appetizers and refreshing cocktails as you mix and mingle! This is a wonderful opportunity to broaden your social circle and perhaps connect with someone special.
When: Thursday, May 15th from 7:00 – 10:00 pm
Where: Tall Oaks | 9199 Chillicothe Rd. Kirtland, OH 44094
Feel free to include a song request for the DJ when you RSVP!
To register, or if you have questions, please contact us at carverfinancialservices@raymondjames.com or by calling 440-974-0808.
Kindly RSVP by May 5th to help us ensure your comfort and enjoyment.
