I've been in the financial services industry since 1981 and have seen good times, bad times, market crashes, recessions, volatility, tremendous swings - in other words - life. Having survived all this, I am more committed than ever to helping my clients simplify their financial lives by cutting through the complexity for them to arrive at a workable program for their long term financial success. Simply put - I am dedicated to using my education, experience and resources to help clients develop a financial plan that they understand and believe in. In my opinion, this is the type of plan that will work over the long haul.
As a holder of 5 degrees and designations, I am prepared to help you achieve your financial goals. My process is simple and user friendly. After an initial complimentary consultation, we mutually decide if we want to work together for your benefit. We then learn as much as we can about your personal and financial situation, set goals, do an assessment, formulate a plan and then jointly implement it. After that, we periodically meet to monitor and adjust your plan to meet changing circumstances. In addition to the actual planning process itself, a variety of financial products from quality providers are available to you.
A very crucial part of my practice is my team of Mary Harden who has been with me since 1984 and my daughter Danielle Witt who has been working with me since 2012. Between us we strive to outservice the competition with many proactive activities and rapid response to inquiries.
As a former avid marathon canoe racer, runner, athletic trainer, cross country skier and snowshoe racer, I have used various competitions as a platform to raise money for various local charities such as the Dream Factory, Camp Good Days and Special Times, The Arthritis Foundation, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial at Highland Park. In the past 34 years, my generous clients and friends have pledged over $182,000 to these causes on my behalf. My current flagship fund raiser is the 44 mile Tour de Teddi Ride around Keuka Lake each September to help the children of Camp Good Days and Special Times. Let me know if you want to ride on my team in next years Tour on September 9th, 2023. E-bikes are welcome!
Marc R. Gillespie, CLU, ChFC, CFS, MSM, CLF
585-387-3625, marc@forgefinancialadvisors.com
Check the background of this firm on FINRA's BrokerCheck.
Helpful Content
Contributing to an IRA?
Determine if you are eligible to contribute to a traditional or Roth IRA.
Eight Mistakes That Can Upend Your Retirement
There are common mistakes you can avoid when saving for retirement.
Systematic Withdrawals in Retirement
Taking regular, periodic withdrawals during retirement can be quite problematic.
Key Money Moments: 4 Times You Should Talk to a Pro
Life happens fast, and your finances can take a backseat if you’re not careful. Is it time to check in with a financial professional? This infographic will help you examine your own financial situation and decide if it’s time to step up your financial game.
To Catch a Thief
Having your identity stolen may result in financial loss plus the cost of trying to restore your good name.
A Decision Not Made Is Still a Decision
Investors who put off important investment decisions may face potential consequence to their future financial security.
The Anatomy of an Index
The S&P 500 represents a large portion of the value of the U.S. equity market, it may be worth understanding.
Retirement Questions That Have Nothing to Do With Money
Things to consider before retirement.
A Penny Saved is Two Pennies Earned
Here are some simple and inexpensive energy-saving tips that may help you save money.
View all articles 
Contributing to an IRA?
Determine if you are eligible to contribute to a traditional or Roth IRA.
Inflation & Retirement
Estimate how much income may be needed at retirement to maintain your standard of living.
Tax Freedom Day
Assess how many days you'll work to pay your federal tax liability.
Self-Employed Retirement Plans
Estimate the maximum contribution amount for a Self-Employed 401(k), SIMPLE IRA, or SEP.
Comparing Investments
This calculator compares the net gain of a taxable investment versus a tax-favored one.
Saving for Retirement
This calculator can help you estimate how much you may need to save for retirement.
View all calculators
5 Smart Investing Strategies
There are some smart strategies that may help you pursue your investment objectives
Investment Strategies for Retirement
Investment tools and strategies that can enable you to pursue your retirement goals.
An Inside Look at Retirement Living
A number of questions and concerns need to be addressed to help you better prepare for retirement living.
Managing Your Lifestyle
Using smart management to get more of what you want and free up assets to invest.
5 Smart Investing Principles
Principles that can help create a portfolio designed to pursue investment goals.
Your Cash Flow Statement
A presentation about managing money: using it, saving it, and even getting credit.
View all presentations
What You Need to Know About Social Security
Every so often, you’ll hear about Social Security benefits running out. But is there truth to the fears, or is it all hype?
When Markets React
When markets shift, experienced investors stick to their strategy.
What Can a Million Dollars Buy You?
$1 million in a diversified portfolio could help finance part of your retirement.
The Cost of Procrastination
Procrastination can be costly. When you get a late start, it may be difficult to make up for lost time.
Rightsizing for Retirement
What does your home really cost?
Retirement Accounts When You Change Your Job
This video discusses issues related to your retirement accounts when you move on from your job.