Chaz Black is proof that life’s detours can lead to purpose. A country kid from Ohio who hunted, fished, and trapped his way to Wheaton College to play football, Chaz never imagined his path would run through Hollywood before circling back to Wheaton for what he calls his “comeback tour.” After Chaz graduated from Wheaton with a Business/Economics degree, he did football stunts and celebrity training before he returned to coach football at Wheaton College.

Today, Chaz lives in Winfield with his wife, Hillary, and son Charles (IV), building a life centered on faith, family, and service. When he’s not portaging the Boundary Waters in Canada, you’ll find him tackling grueling fitness races, enjoying a carnivore diet (with a healthy side of pizza), and making sure his son is part of every adventure. Chaz and Hillary love being engaged with their community, family, and friends, but equally love a quiet night on the couch with a good show.

At Thrivent, Chaz is passionate about empowering clients’ generosity, achieving clarity for dizzied pre-retired and retired sojourners, equipping churches and not-for-profits to thrive financially and helping business owners realize the potential in what they’ve built.

For Chaz, success means serving and encouraging others-a stadium with unlimited end zones.

Eric Christopherson is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional with The Grove Financial Group in Wheaton, Illinois. Raised just next door in Batavia, Eric graduated from Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, Illinois. He began his career at Thrivent, serving families in the Chicago suburbs, before he and his wife, Grace, a fourth-year medical student, relocated to West Virginia for several years while she pursued her medical training. Now working with clients in over 15 states, Eric focuses on bringing simplicity and clarity to complex decisions, building practical plans that align money with what matters most.

Eric is most passionate about helping pre-retirees with tax-efficient planning, guiding graduate students in managing significant debt, and partnering with small business owners. Outside of work, Eric values his faith, family, and serving his community. You’ll often find him and his wife out golfing or exploring with their golden retriever, Blue.

I joined The Grove Financial Group because I feel deeply called to serve others with excellence and to create meaningful connections. My background as both a small business owner and a mom of three has shaped how I approach my work- with energy, a “get it done” attitude, and a passion of connecting others to solutions.

Faith and family are at the center of my life. I’m a passionate follower of Jesus, wife to my college sweetheart Allan, and mom to three wonderful kids who keep me busy cheering from the sidelines, celebrating recitals, and enjoying time together. Assisting Chaz and Eric in this role allows me to use my skills and experiences to support our clients and team, making sure each person feels cared for and valued.