For David Schapals, financial planning wasn’t always the obvious career path. Despite growing up around the industry, he initially had different plans for his future. But over time, he realized just how much this business is about helping people—a passion he’s always had.
“My dad started our company when I was around 14,” Schapals said. “I’ve always been around it and honestly never thought I’d pursue it as a career, but helping people has always been my passion. This is definitely a business where you get to help people plan for such an important part of their life.”
Now, as he looks ahead, he sees the next generation taking an interest in continuing what his father started.
“I now have kids myself, and they’ve been working with me in the business,” he said. “They seem to have an interest in continuing the family business. I hope to be able to train and help them get established in this industry and see them succeed just like my dad and I have. That would make me very proud.”
Local Roots, Local Trust
Growing up in Mobile has given Schapals a unique perspective on serving his community. He knows firsthand how much people in the area value working with local businesses they can trust.
“Working with locals is always a plus,” he said. “People from Mobile and Baldwin County love this area and are always willing to work with companies from around here. I’ve learned over the years that clients like helping companies like ours because we truly understand the area, and our clients want to continue to see us grow.”
That deep connection with the community is one of the things that makes Care Financial stand out.
The Freedom to Put Family First
One of the biggest benefits of Schapals’ career choice has been the flexibility it provides—something that has allowed him to be there for his family every step of the way.
“I always knew that I wanted to have a job where my time was flexible so I could spend as much time as I could with my family,” he said. “I have two boys, and even before having them, I wanted to make sure I’d always be there by their side at all their sporting events, practices and school functions. I’m so blessed to have been able to do that over the years, and I can’t imagine another career that would’ve given me this flexibility.”
Now that his kids are in college, he sees just how much that time together meant.
“We all talk about how I was always able to be at all of their events,” he said. “It’s been such a blessing.”
Balancing Business and Family Life
Running a growing business while being present for his family hasn’t always been easy, but Schapals has learned how to find balance.
“This is a huge challenge, but for me, I feel like I’ve always been able to separate work and family,” he said. “I learned a long time ago from my dad that you needed to find balance in your work and family life. For me, it’s always been about utilizing tools that are available to make my job easier and letting people help and reduce the load for me.”
His clients have also reinforced this mindset, reminding him how valuable time with family truly is.
“All of my clients over the years have always told me to spend time with my wife and kids because one day the kids will be gone, and you’ll wish you had spent as much time with them as possible,” he said. “Knowing that my clients understood how important family time is helped me not feel guilty about spending as much time with my family as possible.”
A Safe Approach to Retirement Planning
At Care Financial, the focus isn’t on risky investments. Instead, Schapals and his team prioritize security and guarantees, helping clients feel confident about their financial future.
“We’re a firm that provides safety and guarantees,” he explained. “Our approach is not risky and is one that a customer can be comfortable knowing that their plan has no risk. I tell everyone when we first meet that if you’re looking for someone to work with that will encourage risks, that’s not us. You get to a point in life where preserving is more important than the risk in trying to get more.”
Many of his clients don’t realize just how secure their financial future can be until they sit down with him.
“I think the most common story would be one where a client comes in and has no idea that there are plans that will protect their money from the market, give them growth and positive returns when the market is up, and protect them when the market is bad,” he said. “It’s also exciting to be able to show clients that the income they’ll be getting from their accounts is guaranteed for life for them and their spouse if they’re married.”
Looking to the Future
As Care Financial moves forward, Schapals is excited about what’s to come—especially as his sons begin exploring a future in the business.
“I’m so excited that my boys are eager to learn this business and carry on the family company,” he said. “They’ll be able to help those in our community that are looking to work with a family-owned business and hopefully keep the doors open for another 40 years.”
With a strong foundation built on trust, family and a commitment to helping people, Schapals is ready for the next chapter.
“It’s hard to believe our company has been around this long already, but time flies when you’re having fun,” he said.
The Care Financial team remains dedicated to providing personalized financial solutions for individuals and families. Whether you’re planning for the future or looking for trusted guidance, Care Financial is here to help every step of the way.
Shop Local, Eat Local, Live Local 