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About Us

Take Charge America

How It Started

Empowering Financial Independence Since 1987

Take Charge America is a nonprofit financial counseling agency that has helped over 2 million people nationwide transform their financial outlook. We provide personalized guidance to pay off debt, regain financial control, and save for the future. With a mission rooted in free financial education, we've helped clients manage and repay over $6 billion in personal debt, creating a positive impact on individuals, households, and communities.

35+

Years Experience

$540M

Debt Managed

1M+

Families Served

$100M

Amount Saved

Highest Level of Industry Standards

We are committed to the highest levels of ethical business practices and quality service, taking extra steps to earn, maintain and even set industry standards.

Better Business Bureau

For decades, we have maintained an A+ rating from the BBB of Arizona, the highest possible rating a member organization can receive for sound and transparent business practices.

COA Accreditation

We have proudly attained COA Accreditation. Council on Accreditation is an independent organization that ensures all of our programs and services are delivered at the highest possible standards.

National Foundation for Credit Counseling®

Considered the "Gold Standard" in financial counseling, we are active members of the NFCC, a nonprofit association providing counselor education, legislative advocacy and expansive consumer resources.

Financial Counseling Association of America

As a member of the FCAA, a member-supported national association, we meet strict statutory requirements and commit to delivering services with integrity, fairness and professionalism.

Core Values

Empowering Education

We believe in delivering high-quality financial education that equips individuals to make confident decisions.

Empowering Education

We believe in delivering high-quality financial education that equips individuals to make confident decisions.

Empowering Education

We believe in delivering high-quality financial education that equips individuals to make confident decisions.

Our Foundation

Mission

Empowering people to take control of their financial future through education, personalized guidance, and compassionate support.

Vision

To be the go-to resource for individuals and families seeking lifelong financial wellness, offering practical tools, trusted advice, and real solutions for every stage of life.

Code of Ethics

We act with honesty, integrity, and respect. Our team is dedicated to serving each client with empathy and transparency, ensuring every decision is made with their best financial interests at heart.

In the Community

We offer free tools, resources and guidance to people facing a variety of financial challenges, helping them develop effective financial habits, budget to meet living expenses and manage debt. Learn what we do, how we do it, and how you or your organization can benefit.

LEARN MORE

Annual Report

For an in-depth overview of our recent activities and achievements, download our Annual Report for Fiscal 2018-2019.

Click cover to download PDF.

LEADERSHIP

Manuel Salazar, MBA, CFM

Manuel Salazar, MBA, CFM

CEO

Learn More

With a strong focus on innovation and meeting consumer demand, CEO Manuel Salazar oversees the greater execution of Take Charge America's vision to serve as a lifelong resource for individuals and families seeking financial guidance.

Bringing more than two decades of experience in nonprofit and technology industries, Manuel expertly guides the development of people, operations and services. He draws on leadership experiences across diverse markets to help TCA identify the needs of Americans struggling with debt, and to fill gaps.

Board of Directors

Alice Sweeney, Chairman

Industry Consultant
Self Employed

Deborah Haynes, Ph.D

Associate Professor, Health & Human
Development
Montana State University

Jonathan Fox, Ph.D

Professor, Human Development &
Family Studies
Iowa State University

Brenda Blunt

Partner
Eide Bailly LLP

Del-Monte Edwards

Executive Director
Tanner Properties, Inc.

Kerwin Brown

Managing Principal
K-Vaughn Consulting, LLC

Start YourFreeCredit Counseling Session

You can regain control of your money and peace of mind.

  • Available online 24/7
  • Save your progress & return later
  • Easy process with clear instructions
  • Download credit report summary

Need Help? Call Us
Monday – Friday, 6 AM – 6 PM MST
866-528-0588

EACH YEAR, Thousands Trust TCA to Eliminate Credit Card Debt and Regain Financial Freedom

Testimonial

Empowering Millions to Achieve Financial Freedom

Need Help? Contact Us

Have questions or need support? Our team is here to assist you.

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