Heart Partners
A Heart-to-Heart: LONNIE FRIEDMAN
What contribution(s) did you give to Olivia's House?
I gave a contribution of a mutual fund stock portfolio. This would give Olivia's House the flexibility to use the funds when and if they see fit, or just leave funds in the account to accumulate interest.
How did that gift come about?
My Mom is the Development Director for Olivia's House. She was so exited about the mission that I visited the house a few times and learned more about it for myself. I thought that a portfolio would be the best way for me to contribute.
What lead to your decision to help Olivia's House?
I knew that the contribution would be well used. Sometimes you don't know where your money goes when you donate, but I am sure that funds donated to Olivia's House directly benefit program families. And the programs meet a great need in the lives of those kids who lose someone close to them.
What does a typical day include?
As a Senior Vice President with Smith Barney, I get up, go to work, and spend most of my day putting together financial plans for high net worth individuals all over the country. After that, I de-stress at the gym as part of my daily routine. I meet my girlfriend at the gym every day and then we go out to dinner. Guess which part of the day I like best??
Who are your heroes?
Gotta go with my parents. We all went though a lot and that brought us to where we each are individually and as a family today. They really are a model of strength and determination, and have shown me that love can really overcome anything.
What would people be surprised to know about you?
I guess it's that I honestly care what people think of me. I admit my insecurities are part of my personality.
Describe an excellent vacation for you?
I love to cruise! Just give me some suntan lotion, put me on a boat, and head me toward the Caribbean!
What can always be found in your refrigerator?
Protein bars and drinks, veggies for my girlfriend and plenty of water! Basically, we eat out most of the time.
What TV shows do you watch?
Shows related to health and fitness, old Seinfeld re-runs, America's Most Wanted, and programs such as Law and Order.
Being so successful with your career, are there any unfulfilled ambitions of yours?
I just want to grow my client base and continue to make people feel secure about their investments and their future. This is a heavy responsibility and I take it seriously.
How would you define success?
A successful person is a person who wakes up happy on a daily basis.
What was your proudest accomplishment?
Career wise, I guess it's when I became one of the youngest senior vice-presidents at the largest investment firm in the world. Personally, one of the highlights has been my relationship with my lovely girlfriend.
How do you want to be remembered?
I want to be remembered as someone who added value to the lives of the people who met me.
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