Jackson, MS – Sound Financial Strategies announces that CEO Chris McAlpin will step down at the end of 2025 to serve in full-time ministry with the National Christian Foundation, helping launch a Christian Community Foundation (CCF) for Mississippi.
McAlpin, who has served clients for more than 20 years, shared the following personal letter with clients:
I hope this letter finds you well—and keeping cool in this Southern heat.
This note is personal. It’s about a significant change in my life, my family’s life, and at Sound Financial.
Over the past year, I’ve come to recognize that the Lord is calling me into full-time ministry. Some friends and family have been surprised by this news—others have simply said, “It’s about time.”
On January 1, 2026, I will begin serving with the National Christian Foundation, helping to launch a Christian Community Foundation (CCF) for Mississippi.
Since July 2024, I’ve been wrestling with a topic that I couldn’t shake in prayer alone. By December, it became clear the Lord was leading me toward some form of ministry. At first, I imagined working bi-vocationally—continuing to serve you at Sound while also engaging in ministry work. But as I studied and met with leaders from Christian Community Foundations across the South, I realized my entire career has been preparing me for this next step.
A CCF is a nonprofit that helps individuals, families, businesses, and churches give generously in a way that aligns with their Christian faith. We will manage charitable tools like donor-advised funds, support gospel-centered ministries, offer legacy and stewardship planning, assist with grantmaking, and teach biblical generosity and money management. Our vision is to see $12 million given away each year—making a lasting impact in local and global communities.
Because this is what I love. Directing resources to ministries. Using business creativity to advance the Gospel. Helping others experience freedom in Christ—including with their money. For years, I’ve held on to 1 Timothy 6:17-19 as a guiding verse in my career:
"Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth... but to put their hope in God... Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share... so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life."
It’s been one of the greatest honors of my life to serve you as part of the Sound Financial team for the past twenty years. You've allowed me to build a career doing work I love while raising a family I treasure. I consider many of you dear friends, and I will always be glad to serve however I can.
Let me also say a few words about your team at Sound. You’re in good hands.
Joel Holden (CFP) will continue leading as President and Senior Financial Advisor. He is not only a trusted business partner but one of my closest friends. Jerry Grantham (ChFC) brings tremendous experience and wisdom as a Senior Financial Advisor. Laura Herrington, now a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) and financial advisor, is an outstanding planner with deep insight. Christine Cole, our longtime operations director, also serves clients as a skilled financial advisor. And of course, Tonia Ray and Susan Mitchell continue to greet and serve you with kindness, excellence, and follow-through.
This team is wise, trustworthy, and fully committed to your financial well-being.
Over the past two decades, technology has changed how we work—but not why we work. At Sound Financial, personal service still matters. Human-to-human connection will always be at the heart of what we do, helping you pursue your goals with confidence.
Between now and January, I will continue to work as a financial advisor and look forward to talking to you. I am happy to answer questions, explain all the happenings behind the ministry, and will continue to update you with letters and emails.
Thank you again for the privilege of walking this journey with you.
Sincerely,
Chris McAlpin
About Sound Financial Strategies
Sound Financial Strategies is a Mississippi-based financial advisory firm committed to providing personal, values-driven financial planning and investment management. For over three decades, the firm has served individuals, families, and businesses with a relational approach that combines technical expertise with a commitment to long-term client success.