Services
The Jefferson County Financial Empowerment Center (FEC) is a free public service that offers one-on-one financial counseling to all adults living or working in Jefferson County. Our certified financial counselors are trained by the Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund to guide participants through budgeting, debt management, credit improvement, and long-term goal setting.
We deliver services across multiple community locations in Jefferson County, partner with local programs to embed financial counseling on topics like building credit, saving for emergencies, and planning for your family’s future.
This service is completely free thanks to a partnership between Jefferson County Human Services and Community Action Coalition for South Central Wisconsin, with support from sponsors like the CFE Fund.
For general inquiries about the Jefferson County FEC or to become a partner with the program, please contact FEC Program Manager Rhiannon Tonies at rhiannont@cacscw.org.
Jefferson County Impact Stats
September 2025 – April 2026
- Reduce non-mortgage debt by $349,589
- Increase savings by $93,310
- Increase credit score by at least 35 points for 8 clients
- Closed 10 delinquent accounts for clients

We help you build a personalized plan to break the cycle of debt and take steps toward lasting financial freedom.

We’ll help you review your credit report and understand the steps to build—and keep—a stronger credit score.

Start small and build up. We’ll work with you to set achievable savings goals and build habits that last.

Get connected to a secure, low-cost bank account. Learn how to use it confidently to manage your money and reach your goals.

Make a plan for the future. Legacy planning helps you organize your assets, name who you trust, and ensure your loved ones are taken care of.
Financial Counselors

Rhiannon Tonies
FEC Program Manager
My name is Rhiannon Tonies, and I’m the Program Manager for the Jefferson County Financial Empowerment Center. I joined Community Action Coalition in 2020 and have worn many hats over the past five years—from serving as a crisis counselor to leading mental health education initiatives and managing a housing aid program for individuals experiencing financial stressors.
I’ve lived in Wisconsin my entire life and have called Jefferson County home for the past decade. This community means a great deal to me, and I truly believe there’s no better place to live and raise a family. My background is in education, and I’ve always had a deep passion for helping others reach their goals.
In my role at the FEC, I’m excited to support clients as they work to overcome financial barriers, set realistic goals, and build lasting financial stability. I’m also eager to collaborate with partners across Jefferson County to ensure the long-term success of the FEC and its impact on the community we all care so much about.

Fernando “CJ” Garcia
FEC Counselor
My name is Fernando Garcia, but most people know me as CJ. I’m proud to serve as a Financial Counselor with the Financial Empowerment Center (FEC). I’ve spent most of my life in Wisconsin and grew up in Watertown. I’m a father of four and the owner of a catering and food trailer business—and like many people, I still have financial dreams I’m working toward.
I’m passionate about helping others improve their financial wellness because I believe it’s essential not just for our financial stability, but for our overall well-being and the future of our families. My goal is to support clients in breaking through financial barriers and achieving goals that matter most to them.

Stephanie Chamberlain
FEC Counselor
My name is Stephanie Chamberlain, and I’m a Financial Counselor at the Financial Empowerment Center of Jefferson County. I’ve spent much of my professional career in the banking industry, and that experience—along with my own personal financial journey—has shaped how I support others on their path to financial wellness.
My goal is to create a safe, judgment-free space where clients feel empowered to set goals and make progress, no matter where they’re starting from. Whether the road is smooth or filled with a few potholes, I’m here to help you navigate it.
As a mom of three, I believe deeply in the power of community—it truly takes a village. I look forward to walking alongside you as you work toward a stronger, healthier financial future.
FEC News
Catch up on all the latest news circling Jefferson County’s Financial Empowerment Center. We are always seeking ways to spread the message of our free service.
FEC Documents
Find a list of all of Jefferson FEC documents for printing and sharing here.
Partnerships

Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund

Fort Atkinson Community Foundation
Greater Watertown Community Health Foundation

Jefferson County Department of Human Services

St. Vincent De Paul, Lake Mills, WI

Summit Credit Union

Jefferson Community Foundation

Rock Lake Activity Center

Madison Area Technical College

Lake Mils Area Community Foundation

Bank of Lake Mills
- Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund
- Jefferson County Department of Human Services
- Fort Atkinson Community Foundation
- Greater Watertown Community Health Foundation
- Jefferson Community Foundation
- St. Vincent De Paul, Lake Mills, WI
- Summit Credit Union
- Rock Lake Activity Center
- Madison College
- LM Area Community Foundation
- Bank of Lake Mills









